… Urges Soludo to Keep Campaign Promises
By Onyinyechi Nwankwo
The Resident Electoral Commissioner (REC) for Anambra State, QueenElizabeth Agwu, has affirmed that the recently concluded governorship election in the state was peaceful, transparent, and credible, describing it as one of the freest polls conducted since Nigeria’s return to democracy.
Agwu, who spoke with journalists at the INEC Headquarters in Awka shortly after the declaration of results, said the election recorded no cases of violence, intimidation, or harassment across the 21 local government areas of the state.
She noted that no political party or candidate lodged any formal complaint during or after the exercise, a development she attributed to the collective commitment of stakeholders to democratic integrity.
“The governorship election was free, fair, and credible. There was no vote buying, thuggery, or violence in any polling unit. Everyone from INEC officials, observers, and journalists to voters, party agents, and candidates, conducted themselves peacefully and responsibly,” Agwu stated.
She commended electoral officers, security personnel, journalists, and observers for their professionalism and collaboration, which, she said, ensured a smooth and credible process that reflected the will of the people.
Agwu also advised the re-elected governor, Professor Chukwuma Charles Soludo, to remain steadfast in fulfilling his campaign promises to the people, stressing that doing so would strengthen citizens’ trust in the electoral process and inspire greater faith in future elections.
According to her, every project or programme executed by the Soludo administration ultimately serves the general good of all citizens of Anambra State and, by extension, contributes to the progress of Nigeria as a whole.
Addressing reports of alleged vote buying and other irregularities, the REC dismissed them as mere political propaganda, insisting that no concrete evidence of such incidents was received by the Commission. She emphasized that INEC remained vigilant throughout the process, and the election’s credibility was never compromised.
While acknowledging logistical and funding challenges during the exercise, Agwu praised the resilience and patriotism of voters and stakeholders, urging all Anambra residents to support the Soludo-led government for the collective advancement and benefit of the state.
She further expressed appreciation to political parties, candidates, and the media for their maturity and adherence to electoral guidelines, noting that the peaceful outcome was proof that democracy in Anambra continues to deepen through cooperation, responsibility, and mutual respect.
