CC Onyeze Advocates for Free and Fair Conduct in Anambra LG Elections

As the much-anticipated Anambra Local Government elections commences today, Sir CC Onyeze, a renowned humanitarian and public affairs commentator, has made a resounding call for transparency, fairness, and strict adherence to democratic principles.

Speaking on the expectations of the electoral process, Onyeze underscored the importance of conducting a credible election, warning against actions that could lead to disenfranchisement of the electorate, which, he noted, may result in palpable unrest and multiple litigations.

Onyeze emphasized that partisan politics, when conducted in line with democratic ideals, serves as a critical vehicle for true democracy. “Leaders and stakeholders must ensure that the electoral process reflects the will of the people. The right to vote is a fundamental democratic right, and any attempt to subvert this right through malpractice or negligence must be discouraged,” he stated.

He urged Governor Chukwuma Soludo and the Anambra State Independent Electoral Commission (ANSIEC) to uphold the principles enshrined in the Nigerian Constitution. “It is the responsibility of ANSIEC to ensure that the elections are conducted in accordance with constitutional provisions. Anything less than this would be a disservice to the democratic values we hold dear in Anambra State and Nigeria at large.”

In addition to advocating for a fair process, Sir CC Onyeze highlighted the need for adequate security arrangements, particularly in high-risk areas prone to electoral violence or manipulation. He called on the security agencies to collaborate closely with electoral bodies to safeguard the integrity of the polls. “The presence of adequate security is paramount in ensuring that voters feel safe to exercise their franchise without fear or intimidation. We must not allow any group or individual to disrupt the peace and order of our electoral process.”

Onyeze further warned that any attempt to disenfranchise voters or manipulate the outcome of the elections would not only result in public outcry but also invite a series of legal challenges. “Litigations arising from flawed elections have historically bogged down our judicial system and weakened public confidence in democracy. We must avoid this by ensuring that the elections are free, fair, and credible.”

As the election is ongoing across the 21 LGAs in the state, Sir CC Onyeze’s appeal resonates with many Anambra citizens who are eager for a transparent process that reflects their choices. His words serve as a reminder that the essence of democracy lies in the participation of the people, and any attempt to undermine this could threaten the stability and progress of the state.