Anambra Guber Poll: Expert Predicts Low Turnout As Amupitan Faces First Test

With hours to the November 8, 2025, Anambra State governorship election, concerns are mounting over possible low voter enthusiasm and turnout, despite assurances from the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) of a credible and peaceful exercise.

Former Executive Director of the Centre for Democracy and Development (CDD), Professor Jibrin Ibrahim, stated this on Arise News on Friday following his assessment of INEC’s preparedness and voter sentiment ahead of the polls.

Prof Ibrahim expressed concerns over reports predicting low voter participation, saying the trend reflects waning public confidence in the electoral process.

“Anambra has recorded one of the lowest voter turnouts in our history, and it has been deteriorating over the years,” Ibrahim said. “When voters believe their votes will not count, they become discouraged from participating. That lack of confidence threatens the legitimacy of the entire process.”

The political scientist, however, urged eligible voters in the state to defy apathy and come out en masse to exercise their franchise, assuring them that security agencies were better prepared to guarantee safety at identified hotspots such as Orumba North, Orumba South, Ihiala, Ogbaru, and Aguata.

“Security agencies have improved in identifying and blocking threats. I believe voters’ security will be guaranteed, and the election will be free and fair,” he added.

He also commended the new INEC Chairman, Professor Joash Amupitan, SAN, describing the Anambra election as his first major test in office and a chance to reinforce citizens’ trust in Nigeria’s electoral process.

“If voters turn out in large numbers and exercise their mandate, they will be contributing to improving the quality and integrity of elections in Nigeria,” he said.

The Anambra governorship election, observers note, will not only test the credibility of INEC under new leadership but could also signal whether recent reforms in technology and logistics will finally translate into higher voter confidence and participation.

Candidates from major political parties including APGA, PDP, APC, Labour Party, ADC and AAC are contesting for the state’s top seat scheduled to hold on Saturday.