Last Saturday, the gubernatorial election in Anambra State was held by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), led by its new...
Last Saturday, the gubernatorial election in Anambra State was held by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), led by its new chairman, Professor Joash Amupitan. The results of the election, which generated varied responses, were seen as a measure of INEC's performance, as well as that of Amupitan, in upcoming elections, particularly those leading up to the 2027 general elections. KINGSLEY ALUMONA presents the perspectives of some Nigerians on this issue. Their opinions:
Dennis Njirika
On the positive side, the direct upload of results from polling units and the timely compilation/release of results without technical issues are praiseworthy. On the negative side, the prevalence of vote buying without significant arrests or prosecutions is a major drawback. Clearly, INEC will be at a loss during national elections.
Gift Ekwegh
The matter of elections extends beyond the INEC chairman. The individual is located in Abuja and declares the results provided to him. Until we address poverty among the poor and instill a sense of fear of the law among the elite, we are essentially fooling ourselves in Nigeria.
Gbenga Giwa
I would give him a B. He deserves a high grade, given that the election proceeded relatively peacefully. However, the 'nairalisation' of the election, although inherited, left a bitter feeling. Additionally, the new INEC chairman appeared unable to prevent it. Weighing these factors resulted in the B.
Raphael Agbasionwe
There is currently no performance available for evaluation. He only returned on the day before the election and, as a result, was not involved in the planning process. Let us allow him time to adjust and fully grasp the current state of INEC, and then begin promoting his vision to the team.
Abdulazeez Idowu
I would give the INEC chairman a 95 percent rating. The INEC and the Federal Government should also adopt the same approach in Osun State next year. Considering what occurred on Saturday in Anambra State, to be honest, President Bola Tinubu is likely to receive a large number of votes in that state. If a similar situation arises in other states, particularly in Osun State next year, I sincerely believe President Tinubu will gain significant support in Osun.
Christopher Ige-adubi
The newly appointed INEC chairman, Professor Joash Amupitan, demonstrated excellence in overseeing the Anambra State gubernatorial election. The commission exhibited notable progress, especially in the timely submission of results to the INEC portal, which boosted transparency and public trust in the procedure. While there were some small logistical issues in certain regions, the overall conduct remained calm, just, and reliable when compared to earlier elections. Professor Amupitan’s leadership thus far offers optimism for a more effective and tech-oriented electoral system in upcoming elections.
Juwon MI
The Anambra election was straightforward and quick. It was nothing like a court case. The allegations of money incentives cannot be managed by INEC, but instead by the security agencies. I would rate INEC 80/100. The election was legitimate and acceptable.
Onyia Ernest
Nigerian citizens are the source of Nigeria's challenges — including the election officials who oversee voting without result sheets and adults who trade their votes. The most distressing aspect was individuals who exchanged their votes for Gala snacks, canned Coca-Cola, and N500 notes.
Otolola Abiodun
I praise Professor Amupitan, the INEC chairman, for the excellent work and the comprehensive logistics arranged for the election. If this approach could be extended to Osun State in 2026, I am confident that Nigerians would have greater trust in INEC.
Sunday Osang
The public promise made by the current governor of Anambra State, Charles Soludo, prior to the elections, to distribute millions of naira to constituencies that supported APGA constituted an electoral offense that INEC was expected to contest but did not. We all witnessed the extensive use of money throughout the election process. This represented a dangerous level of impunity. Even if our judicial system is compromised, I urge all other political parties involved in the voting to bring the issue to court. Regrettably, Charles Soludo, who is a professor, has sealed the fate of integrity within Nigerian politics. What a disgrace.
Omo Akilofalaseju
INEC has performed well so far. The matter of vote-buying is not the main concern, as it has turned into a customary practice in Nigerian politics. Those caught are merely used as convenient targets. That's all.
John Itama
No comments for now until they hold the second election, then we will find out if it was the Trump story that halted and disrupted their plans. Let's wait for another election.
Austin Honourable
A group of Soludo men were caught in the act with uncounted money, attempting to purchase votes, but INEC still proceeded to declare that individual as the winner. How is this possible? I give them a rating of 15 percent.
Opawole Adewole
The new INEC chairman delivered outstanding performance. He possesses integrity. He upheld his honor and reputation. He is an individual who commands respect.
Odeji Christian
Many of the comments regarding this matter come from Yorubas concerning an election or selection that took place in Anambra. My question is: Were you present to see it? If you weren't there, then refrain from commenting on something you have no knowledge of.
Agba-Igwe Achebe
Anambra elections are consistently free and fair. Therefore, you would not rate the new INEC chairman in relation to the Anambra election. The people of Anambra have their own unique approach to handling their affairs.
Yemi Ayeni
Voter bribery remains unchecked. We are still following traditional methods. No changes have occurred. We continue to construct on an unstable base. Eventually, the weak framework will come crashing down.
Minabo Ekine
The newly appointed INEC head is not trustworthy. Even with the funds and the Gala distribution to voters, INEC proceeded to declare the election outcomes.
Anthony Chiegbunem
With individuals distributing money on the voting grounds, which I am certain the new INEC chairman has observed, it is sufficient for him to halt the election in those specific areas. I have not yet noticed anything distinctive about him.
Falae Olugbemiga
I would give INEC and its chairman a rating of 45 percent. INEC along with security personnel need to address the problem of vote buying, which was widespread during the election. Those involved in buying and selling votes should face severe consequences. Considering what occurred on Saturday in Anambra State, it appears the new INEC chairman has not yet adjusted well to his role.
Chimaobi Okwesileze
The INEC's performance was extremely poor. They permitted vote buying. The APGA party appeared to be the primary perpetrator of vote buying in that Anambra State governorship election.
Tochukwu Samuel
What I observed in my state was that the victims of poor governance in Nigeria were trading their votes for cash and Gala snacks while security agencies stood by, and INEC failed to sound the alarm. I give INEC a rating of 48 percent.
Raymond Ekedozie
As no action was taken regarding vote buying in the Anambra gubernatorial election, it implies that vote buying will be tolerated in the 2027 general elections. Therefore, I give INEC a rating of 30 percent.
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