Anambra Election: 5 Things US Will Monitor On November 6 – Ambassador

The United States government on Thursday revealed the five things it would use to judge the transparency of the November 6 governorship election in Anambra State.

Earlier, the public affairs section of the US Embassy in Nigeria had stated that it would consider consequences – including visa restrictions –for anyone who undermines the democratic process in Anambra state.

The federal and state governments have assured that there would be election in the state, but there are believed to be groups, including the Indigenous People of Biafra, who were determined to ensure that no poll holds on November 6.

Our correspondent observed that political posters were torn in several parts of the state.

Speaking in a live interview on Ogene 98.3FM Awka, on Thursday, US Ambassador to Nigeria, Beth Leonard, disclosed what her country would be looking out for on election day.

INDEPENDENT NATIONAL ELECTORAL COMMISSION (INEC)

Leonard hinged the outcome of the November 6 election in Anambra state partly on INEC, adding that the commission’s role is critical.

She said that if INEC is not allowed to operate independently and objectively, the election is likely to be marred.

“There are many factors that we monitor, and that includes, that the INEC and its staff are able to conduct their activities objectively, free from intimidation and outright pressure,” she said.

INEC Chairman, Prof. Mahmood Yakubu, has however, assured Nigerians that the commission will be transparent.

“In our continuing determination to protect the integrity of the electoral process, I wish to remind political parties, candidates and their supporters that vote buying is illegal under our laws. Don’t sell your vote,” Yakubu said on Thursday via the Commission’s Facebook page.

ROLE OF NIGERIA SECURITY AGENCIES

The U.S. will observe the professionalism of Nigeria’s security agencies.

Leonard said amid the large deployment of operatives to the state, security operatives must conduct themselves in line with the constitution.

“That Nigeria security services play a positive role in helping to ensure peaceful Election day,” she added.

POLITICAL LEADERS AND CANDIDATES

Leonard explained that what plays out in the state’s poll will be linked to the body language , rhetoric and actions of all the political actors.

“That Political leaders and candidates have to ensure a peaceful political process,” she said.

Our correspondent learnt that governorship candidates are in Awka to sign the Peace Accord under the oversight of INEC, ahead of the November 6, 2021 Election.

PRESS FREEDOM

The US will watch whether the media will be allowed to do their job without intimidation.

“That the press, people like you, freely broadcast observations, opinions…,” she said.

PEOPLE ARE ALLOWED TO VOTE PEACFULLY

Leonard said that it will consider the election as not being free and fair, if voters are attacked or barred from going to cast their vote.

“Most importantly, that people are allowed to travel to the polls without intimidation or threat against their personal security. And of course, we will observe whether there are anomalies like violence or other electoral manipulation, “ she said.