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The Centre for Democracy and Development (CDD–West Africa) has raised concerns over low electoral competitiveness, rising disinformation, and fragile institutional confidence ahead of the November 8 Anambra State governorship election. Speaking at the opening of its Election Analysis Centre (EAC) in Awka on Friday, CDD noted that while over 2.8 million registered voters are eligible to vote and the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has recorded a 98.8% Permanent Voter Card (PVC) collection rate, there are fears that voter turnout may still be low. The organisation said the election — the first off-cycle poll under INEC Chairman, Prof. Joash Amupitan — represents a key test for Nigeria’s democracy, especially in the areas of credibility, inclusiveness, and resilience of electoral institutions. CDD also launched two pre-election reports: “Anambra 2025: A Barometer of Party Fortunes, Federal Might and Personalities” and “Evaluating Disinformation Risks Ahead of the 2025 Governorship Election in Anambra State.” According to CDD, while INEC has made improvements in preparation, public confidence remains weak due to logistical lapses observed during the Continuous Voter Registration (CVR) exercise. The group also faulted the slow pace of judicial decisions affecting candidate eligibility, saying it undermines trust in the electoral process. It further warned that internal crises within Nigeria’s major political parties have weakened voter mobilisation and overall electoral competitiveness in the state. CDD highlighted security risks in areas such as Ihiala, Nnewi South, Orumba South, and border communities like Lilu, Azia, and Amorka. The report cited weak oversight of vigilante groups and long-standing violence as key factors that could suppress turnout. It urged security agencies to act with professionalism and impartiality on election day. The Centre observed that the ruling All Progressives Grand Alliance (APGA) and the incumbent governor enjoy significant visibility and structural advantages. It criticised the N50 million billboard permit fee imposed by the Anambra State Signage and Advertisement Agency (ANSAA), saying it limits campaign access for smaller parties despite the N1 billion expenditure ceiling set by the Electoral Act 2022. CDD’s assessment of the state’s information ecosystem revealed serious risks from misinformation, disinformation, and hate speech. Seven key patterns of manipulation were identified, including false claims of security bias, religious exploitation, weaponisation of insecurity, and gender-based hate speech targeting women candidates. In response, the organisation said it has deployed 178 trained observers, 57 grassroots “Soldiers of Mouth” monitors to track and counter false information, and 30 mandate protection observers to report electoral irregularities. CDD expressed concern over the low representation of women, youth, and persons with disabilities (PWDs). Only two female candidates—both from smaller parties—are contesting, while polling accessibility for PWDs remains limited. Read also: Situation Room urges credible, peaceful conduct of Anambra governorship poll The democracy think tank urged INEC to ensure neutrality and the efficient deployment of voting materials and BVAS technology; it also called on Security agencies to provide non-partisan protection for voters;. It added that Political parties avoid vote-buying and maintain peaceful conduct, Media and civil society to promote factual information and inclusivity; and called on Citizens to come out and exercise their right to vote. CDD’s Election Analysis Centre (EAC) will operate throughout the election period to monitor narratives, verify information, and counter disinformation in real time. “The 2025 Anambra governorship election is more than a sub-national poll. It is a test of Nigeria’s democratic integrity,” CDD stated, urging all stakeholders to prioritise peace, credibility, and national interest.
