UK Rates Anambra Gov. Poll Better Than Previous Ones

By Ayodele Oni

The United Kingdom, (UK) Observers Group which monitored last Saturday’s governorship election in  Anambra state has submitted that the poll witnessed an improvement over previous ones conducted by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC).

In a congratulatory message to Governor Charles Soludo that won the election, the British High Commission in Abuja lauded voters in Anambra State for their participation in the November 8 governorship election and hailed Prof Soludo on his re-election as governor.

In a statement, the Commission welcomed the largely peaceful and orderly conduct of the election, commending the INEC, security agencies, and other stakeholders for their roles.

“Our team of observers witnessed notable improvements in the electoral process, particularly the timely opening of most polling centres, the effective use of the Bimodal Voter Accreditation System (BVAS), and efforts to improve transparency through INEC’s Results Viewing Portal (IREV),” the statement said.

The British High Commission also praised INEC’s commitment to an inclusive election, especially for people with disabilities, and encouraged continued collaboration to build on these gains ahead of Nigeria’s 2027 general elections.

While welcoming the increase in voter turnout compared with the 2021 governorship polls, the Commission noted that overall participation remains low.

It called on political actors, institutions, and civil society groups to take steps to boost voter engagement in future elections.

However, the UK expressed concern over widespread reports of vote trading, describing it as a practice that erodes public confidence and undermines democracy, urging all stakeholders to address the issue urgently.

It added that the United Kingdom would continue working with INEC, partners, and civil society to support the delivery of peaceful, transparent, inclusive, and credible elections in Nigeria.