Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar has thrown down the gauntlet to the Chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission, Prof. Joash Amupitan, demanding the electoral body prove its commitment to transparency ahead of next weekend’s Anambra governorship poll.
Atiku, in a statement posted on his official X handle, described the November 8 election as a crucial test for INEC and an opportunity to rebuild public confidence in Nigeria’s electoral system.
The Peoples Democratic Party chieftain said the off-cycle election presents “a unique opportunity to end the era of poor governance” in Anambra State whilst preventing what he termed the All Progressives Congress’ “notorious pattern of snatching and running away with the mandate of the people.”
Calling on voters in the South-East state to support the African Democratic Congress candidates, Nwosu Chima John and Nwobu Geoffrey Ndubisi, Atiku argued the duo possess the leadership qualities required to deliver “a new era of prosperity and economic stability.”
The former Vice President urged INEC under Amupitan’s leadership to seize the moment and demonstrate to the world that it has “turned a new page” in safeguarding Nigeria’s democratic credentials.
He stressed that both Nigerians and the international community would be monitoring the exercise closely to determine whether the Commission can deliver a free, fair, and credible election free from manipulation.
Atiku further encouraged registered voters in Anambra to turn out en masse and mobilise support for the ADC, expressing confidence that the state—known for its historic contributions to national development—could once again lead by example.
“Anambra is a place with so many good histories about our great country,” he said. “I believe that yet again, Ndi Anambra will open the chapter of a new beginning in Nigeria where the African Democratic Congress will bring lasting prosperity, peace, and stability to our country.”
In his full statement, Atiku noted: “The Anambra State governorship election next weekend is one in the number of off cycle elections according to the country’s election timetable.
“But, rather than being like any other, the election to elect the next governor of Anambra State on November 8 offers a unique opportunity to end the era of poor governance in the state in addition to ensuring that the ruling All Progressive Congress does not get the chance of practicing its notoriety of snatching and running away with the mandate of the people.
“The election next weekend calls our consciousness to a moment when we must rally round the candidate of the African Democratic Congress, Nwosu Chima John and Nwobu Geoffrey Ndubisi to lead Anambra State to a new era of prosperity and economic stability.
“The election is also an opportunity for the electoral umpire under the leadership of Prof Joash Amupitan, SAN to prove to the world that it has turned a new page, and that the integrity of our election would not be sacrificed for the satisfaction of the ruling party.
“It is therefore important, that every registered voter in Anambra not only determines to vote, but must mobilize huge support for the candidate of the ADC.”
