Situation room on Friday raised the alarm over deployment of high number of security agencies in the Saturday’s gubernatorial election in Anambra state.
The group described deployment of 45,000 security operatives for the exercise as clear manifestation of deficits within the democratisation process.
Addressing newsmen in Awka, Election Expert Achike Chude also expressed concerns over lack of competitiveness demonstrated by several political parties participating in the election.
He however was optimistic security agencies’ presence would provide level-playing environment for parties, deter vote buying and selling, and uphold the sanctity of the election results.
He said, “We note the deployment of personnel by the security agencies, particularly the Nigeria Police Force with a contingent of 45,000 personnel.
“We note that this is a rather high number and while we acknowledge the need to secure the election, the number of deployment in this election is a clear manifestation of deficits within our democratization process.
“After 26 years of regular elections, it is expected that with each election cycle, there will be a draw down in the number of security personnel in elections.
“The presence circumstances, partly created by antics of desperate politicians, is unacceptable.
“The conduct of security personnel deployed for this election must be professional and not seen as intimidating to voters in any way.
“Situation Room expects that the presence of security agencies in Anambra State will provide a level-playing environment for all parties, deter vote buying and selling, and uphold the sanctity of the election results.
The group further called on Police and other security agencies to ensure active contact centres capable of responding effectively to reported issues especially in flashpoints that have been identified prior to now.
“Situation Room notes with some degree of satisfaction the relatively peaceful atmosphere in Anambra State. This is in contrast to the very tensed situation under which the last governorship election held in the State.
“Situation Room believes that the state of anomaly was partly due to incessant and deliberate acts of misinformation and disinformation that permeated the state at the time.
“Situation Room hopes that this positive ambience will help drive voters to the polls to exercise their democratic franchise tomorrow, Saturday, 8th November 2025 given that Anambra State continues to be among the states with the lowest rate of voter turnout.
