Cleen Foundation, a Non-Governmental Organisation (NGO) says voter’s turnout is vital to ensuring free, fair and credible polls in the forthcoming Nov. 8 Anambra governorship poll.
By Diana Omueza
Cleen Foundation, a Non-Governmental Organisation (NGO) says voter’s turnout is vital to ensuring free, fair and credible polls in the forthcoming Nov. 8 Anambra governorship poll.
Mr Peter Maduoma, Acting Executive Director of the foundation, said this on Friday in Abuja at the media dissemination of the 2025 Anambra Governorship Election Security Threat Assessment (ESTA).
The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN), reports that the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) fixed the 2025 Anambra Governorship election on Nove. 8.
Maduoma said that there was need to address certain indicators identified as threats that might mar the electoral process.
According to him, voter’s apathy amongst others may contribute largely to the outcome of the entire election which must be tackled by stakeholders.
“Our comprehensive election security threat assessment has highlighted potential flashpoints, actors of concern and triggers of violence and mitigation recommendations ahead of the election.
“The primary objective of the media dissemination is to ensure that the security threat assessment is accessible, understandable and actionable for stakeholders, especially government officials, law enforcement agencies, civil society organisations and the general public.
“Our aim is to enhance public awareness, encourage proactive security measures and promote peaceful electoral processes,” he said.
Maduoma said that copies of the assessment had been distributed to stakeholders including the police for further actions.
He, however, noted that the role of the media was crucial and invaluable in ensuring accurate, timely and responsible reports.
Maduoma urged journalists to contribute their quotas to ensure peaceful, credible and inclusive elections.
Mr Salaudeen Hashim, Director of Programme of the foundation said that though Anambra is not prone to election violence.
Hashim however said that past election incidents called for precautionary actions to be taken before, during and after the election.
According to him, “the attacks on police stations, INEC officials and government infrastructure in areas such as Aguata, ldemili- North and Anambra-East Local Government Areas highlight the scale of threats,” he said.
He also highlighted the roles of the youths, INEC, the police, community security groups, traditional rulers and the electorate amongst other stakeholders.
Hashim said that everyone had a role to play to ensure the success or failure of the elections.
He urged the government not to militarise the election, shun the use of intimidation also for the youths to shun violence and respect electoral laws and processes.(NAN)(www.nannews.ng)