Anambra State voters have turned out for the off-cycle governorship election on Saturday, November 8, 2025, but initial delays marked the start of the polls. Despite assurances from the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) that voting would commence at 8 a.m., officials were absent from several polling units, including Agu Awka 008 and 022 at Aroma Junction, as of 8:30 a.m., just meters from the INEC headquarters.
Observers expressed concern over the delay. Mr. Charles Kwentoh, an accredited observer from the Catholic Church-backed NGO JDPC, described the situation as disappointing, noting that voters had gathered early in anticipation of the announced start time. “People were ready to cast their votes, but officials hadn’t arrived,” he said, underscoring the logistical hiccup that could impact turnout.
Anambra’s election is one of eight states holding off-cycle governorship polls this year, alongside Bayelsa, Kogi, Imo, Osun, Ondo, Edo, and Ekiti. The state has a history of off-cycle elections, having joined the trend in 2003 following the court-annulled victory of Chris Ngige, which led to Peter Obi’s installation after a protracted tribunal case.
A total of 16 candidates are officially listed by INEC, with major contenders including incumbent Governor Charles Soludo (APGA), George Moghalu (LP), Cyprian Otti (APM), and Jude Ezenwafor (PDP). Other notable candidates include Lisandro Ukachukwu (APC), Chidera Ifemeludike (AAC), and Uchenna Ugwoji (ZLP), highlighting a crowded race with diverse political representation.
INEC Chairman Prof. Joash Amupitan assured Nigerians that the commission had deployed 24,000 personnel and prepared 5,718 out of 5,720 polling units, citing that the two excluded units lacked registered voters. He reaffirmed that all necessary measures were in place to ensure a smooth voting process across the state.
The election is expected to be highly competitive, with Governor Soludo seeking a second term amid strong opposition and growing voter scrutiny. Analysts suggest that early voter enthusiasm, coupled with the presence of high-profile candidates, could influence the political trajectory of APGA and the broader state governance landscape.
Voters and political watchers are advised to follow updates from polling units and official INEC channels. Live results, voter turnout, and breaking news from the governorship race are being tracked closely as Anambra decides its next governor.
