Anambra Gubernatorial Election: CDD Warns of Weak Political Competition and Disinformation

Nigeria’s democracy watchdog, the Centre for Democracy and Development (CDD–West Africa), has issued a warning about potential challenges that could undermine the upcoming Anambra State governorship election scheduled for November 8.

In an assessment presented at the launch of its Election Analysis Centre in Awka on Friday, the organization highlighted concerns over low electoral competition, increasing disinformation, and weakening public confidence in democratic institutions.

The election represents a significant milestone as the first off-cycle poll under the leadership of the new Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) Chairman, Prof. Joash Amupitan. With over 2.8 million registered voters and an impressive 98.8% Permanent Voter Card collection rate, the technical foundation for robust participation exists. However, CDD analysts predict voter turnout may still fall below expectations.

“The 2025 Anambra governorship election is more than a sub-national poll. It is a test of Nigeria’s democratic integrity,” CDD stated, framing the election as a critical barometer for measuring the health of electoral processes nationwide.

The democracy think tank released two comprehensive pre-election reports during the event: “Anambra 2025: A Barometer of Party Fortunes, Federal Might and Personalities” and “Evaluating Disinformation Risks Ahead of the 2025 Governorship Election in Anambra State.” These reports outline several concerning trends that could impact election outcomes.

While acknowledging INEC’s improved preparations, CDD pointed to public skepticism stemming from logistical problems observed during the Continuous Voter Registration exercise. The organization also criticized delays in judicial decisions regarding candidate eligibility, noting that such administrative bottlenecks erode trust in electoral institutions.

Internal fractures within Nigeria’s major political parties have diminished their ability to mobilize voters effectively, according to the report. This party fragmentation has reduced the competitive nature of the election, potentially undermining the quality of democratic choice available to voters.

Security concerns loom large in several parts of the state. The report identified Ihiala, Nnewi South, Orumba South, and border communities such as Lilu, Azia, and Amorka as potential flashpoints. CDD cited inadequate oversight of local vigilante groups and persistent violence in these areas as factors that could depress voter turnout. The organization urged security agencies to maintain professionalism and neutrality throughout the electoral process.

The assessment also raised concerns about an uneven playing field for candidates. The ruling All Progressives Grand Alliance (APGA) and the incumbent governor reportedly enjoy significant advantages in visibility and resource mobilization. A controversial N50 million billboard permit fee imposed by the Anambra State Signage and Advertisement Agency has been criticized for limiting campaign access for smaller parties, despite the N1 billion expenditure ceiling established by the Electoral Act 2022.

Perhaps most troubling is CDD’s analysis of information manipulation tactics. The organization identified seven primary patterns of disinformation, including false allegations of security bias, exploitation of religious tensions, weaponization of insecurity narratives, and gender-based attacks targeting female candidates.

To counter these challenges, CDD has deployed an extensive monitoring network consisting of 178 trained observers, 57 grassroots “Soldiers of Mouth” monitors to track and debunk misinformation, and 30 mandate protection observers to document electoral irregularities in real-time.

The report also highlighted persistent inclusivity gaps. Only two female candidates, both representing smaller parties, are contesting the election, while accessibility for persons with disabilities at polling stations remains inadequate.

CDD concluded its assessment with a series of recommendations for key stakeholders. It called on INEC to maintain neutrality and ensure efficient deployment of voting materials and technology, urged security agencies to provide non-partisan protection for voters, and implored political parties to reject vote-buying tactics and maintain peaceful conduct. The organization also emphasized the responsibility of media outlets and civil society groups to promote factual information and inclusivity.

The CDD Election Analysis Centre will operate throughout the election period, serving as a hub for monitoring narratives, verifying information, and countering disinformation in real-time.