The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has deployed 5,720 Bimodal Voter Accreditation System (BVAS) machines to polling units across Anambra State, intensifying preparations for Nigeria’s 2027 general elections.
The Resident Electoral Commissioner (REC) in Anambra, Dr Queen Elizabeth Agwu, disclosed this at a stakeholders’ meeting in Awka, the state capital, assuring political parties and other stakeholders of the Commission’s readiness to conduct free, fair and credible elections.
Agwu said additional BVAS machines were available in reserve to replace any faulty equipment, while INEC continued to train personnel and upgrade its information and communications technology infrastructure to minimise disruptions on election day.
She disclosed that the Commission planned to engage 22,880 ad hoc staff and 326 Supervisory Presiding Officers for the elections, adding that preparations were progressing steadily.
“We are more than 80 per cent ready with materials ahead of the election,” she said, expressing confidence that the Commission’s preparations would help prevent technical difficulties during the exercise.
The REC urged eligible voters to obtain and safeguard their Permanent Voter Cards (PVCs), warning against misinformation suggesting that voters could participate in the elections without the required cards.
She also advised those who registered between January and July to verify their names in the published register of voters and report any discrepancies for correction.
On the redeployment of electoral officers and other local government-level personnel in the state, Agwu dismissed concerns that the exercise was politically motivated, describing it as a routine administrative measure aimed at improving efficiency and strengthening electoral operations.
She explained that retirements and promotions had created vacancies requiring new appointments, while transfers were necessary to prevent personnel from remaining in the same positions for too long. She maintained that the changes were not intended to favour or disadvantage any political party or candidate.
Agwu also assured residents of security before, during and after the elections, warning politicians against violence, vote buying, the recruitment of thugs and attempts to influence electoral officials with money.
She urged political parties to focus on issue-based campaigns and persuade voters through their programmes rather than resorting to intimidation or character attacks.
The REC said INEC was monitoring campaign activities and would not tolerate a repeat of the alleged campaigns of calumny witnessed during the previous governorship election in the state. She urged political actors to respect the law and support a peaceful electoral process.
Agwu stressed that sustained engagement among INEC, political parties, candidates and other stakeholders was essential to building public confidence in the elections.
The meeting brought together representatives of political parties and other stakeholders to discuss preparations and measures to protect the integrity of the electoral process.
