Former Vice President and 2023 presidential candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Atiku Abubakar, has described the forthcoming Anambra State governorship election as a defining test of the credibility and independence of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) under its chairman, Joash Amupitan (SAN).
Atiku, in a statement posted on his handle on Sunday (today), said the November 8 election must mark a new beginning for the people of Anambra and serve as proof that the electoral umpire has “turned a new page” in ensuring free and fair polls.
“The Anambra State governorship election next weekend is one in the number of off-cycle elections according to the country’s election timetable,” he wrote.
“But rather than being like any other, the election offers a unique opportunity to end the era of poor governance in the state.”
The former Vice President charged INEC to conduct a transparent election devoid of manipulation or interference, saying Nigerians are watching closely.
“This election is 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 elections will not be sacrificed for the satisfaction of the ruling party,” he said.
Atiku noted that the credibility of INEC’s conduct in Anambra would either restore or erode public confidence in Nigeria’s democracy.
Atiku also called on voters to support the African Democratic Congress (ADC) candidate, Nwosu Chima John, and his running mate, Nwobu Geoffrey Ndubisi, whom he described as competent leaders capable of restoring prosperity and stability to the state.
“The election 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,” Atiku stated.
He urged Anambra residents to mobilise support and vote massively for the ADC ticket, saying the state deserved a leadership focused on progress and inclusivity.
Atiku said the election should be seen as an opportunity to “end poor governance” and ensure that the people’s mandate is respected.
“This election offers a unique opportunity to end the era of poor governance in the state and to ensure that the ruling All Progressives Congress does not get the chance of practicing its notoriety of snatching and running away with the mandate of the people,” he said.
He also warned against electoral malpractice, stressing that democracy thrives only when votes truly count.
The former Vice President appealed to residents of Anambra to use their votes to set a new example for other states.
“Anambra is a place with so many good histories about our great country. I believe that yet again, Ndi Anambra will open the chapter of a new beginning in Nigeria, where the ADC would bring lasting prosperity, peace, and stability to our country,” Atiku wrote.
He called on every registered voter to participate actively in the election, describing it as a moment for citizens to shape their future.
“Every registered voter in Anambra must not only determine to vote but must also mobilize huge support for the candidate of the ADC,” he added.
