The Anambra State Independent Electoral Commission (ANSIEC) has intensified its sensitization efforts ahead of the upcoming Local Government elections, warning against the influence of godfatherism and assuring the public that votes will count across the state’s 21 council areas.
During a tour of Ogbaru, Onitsha North, and Onitsha South council areas, the Chairman of ANSIEC, Magistrate Genevieve Osakwe, emphasized the commission’s commitment to conducting free, fair, and credible elections. Represented by the Commissioner in charge of Information and Publicity, Sir Anthony Nnalue, Magistrate Osakwe stated that the tour aimed to assess the readiness of the council areas for the September 28 polls and to inform the public about the commission’s election timetable.
The ANSIEC Chair reassured residents and political parties not to be swayed by the ongoing propaganda in various media outlets, urging them to actively participate in the electoral process. She emphasized that the integrity of the election results will reflect the true will of the people.
Additionally, Mrs. Bernadine Obande, Commissioner in charge of Welfare and Field Services, called on stakeholders to ensure a conducive environment for both electoral staff and voters. She encouraged the mobilization of eligible and registered voters to fully engage in the electoral process.
The stakeholders’ meetings during the tour were well attended, with the presence of Transition Committee Chairmen of the Local Government Areas and representatives of various political parties, signaling strong community involvement as the election day approaches.
