Anambra Guber: CDD‑West Africa Tasks Security Agencies on Professionalism, Neutrality

By Praise Chinecherem

The Centre for Democracy and Development (CDD‑West Africa) said it has deployed 178 trained and accredited observers across the 21 local government areas of the state ahead of Saturday’s governorship election.

CDD-West Africa Election Analysis Centre (EAC) Member, Mrs Seyi Awojulugbe who disclosed this during a press conference said the group also deployed 57 grassroots monitors to assist in addressing information disorder incidents.

She said the observers would target polling units with high volumes and a prior history of election-related issues, while the monitors known as “Soldiers of Mouth” would monitor the ways parties, politicians and the public engage in disinformation.

“We have also deployed 30 mandate protection observers who would spot and report any electoral irregularities to the relevant agencies,” she added.

Awojulugbe, Misinformation, Disinformation & Hate Speech (MDH) Analyst identified political parties’ lack of capacity to mobilise and sensitise voters as major concern in the election, adding that internal crisis within major political parties had weakened electoral competitiveness in the exercise.

“Security threats remain a major concern in Ihiala, Nnewi South, Orumba South, and border communities such as Lilu, Azia, and Amorka.

“Weak oversight of vigilante groups and the long-standing violent environment contribute to a low risk of voter turnout.

“Security agencies must act professionally and protect voters without bias,” she stressed.

CDD-West Africa called on INEC to maintain neutrality and ensure seamless electoral processes, including timely deployment of voting materials and smooth functioning of BVAS/IReV Security agencies to protect citizens without intimidation or selective enforcement

“Political parties should shun vote buying and commit to peaceful conduct while Civil Society and media should amplify factual information and support inclusive participation.

“With the CDD Election Analysis Centre (EAC) now fully operational, our disinformation experts will be working throughout the period to monitor, fact-check, and respond to emerging narratives,” the group added.