Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has confirmed that 12 political parties are gearing up to compete in the Anambra South Senatorial bye-election, set for August 16, 2025.
This significant electoral event follows the tragic passing of Sen. Ifeanyi Ubah in July 2024, which left a void in the representation of the Anambra South constituency in the Nigerian Senate.
The bye-election is a critical opportunity for the region to elect a new senator to continue Ubah’s legislative work.
In parallel, INEC has announced that nine political parties will participate in a separate bye-election for the Onitsha North Constituency 1 seat in the Anambra State House of Assembly.
This vacancy arose following the death of Mr. Justice Azuka, the former representative, who was reportedly abducted by gunmen on December 24, 2024, and later confirmed deceased.
The dual bye-elections underscore the urgency of restoring representation in both the national and state legislative bodies.
INEC’s Resident Electoral Commissioner in Anambra, Dr. Elizabeth Agwu, has emphasized the commission’s commitment to conducting a free and fair electoral process.
“We are fully prepared to deliver credible bye-elections,” Agwu stated, noting that non-sensitive election materials have already been distributed across the state. To ensure a smooth process, robust security measures have been implemented, addressing potential challenges that could disrupt the polls.
Preparations for the elections are in full swing, with INEC concluding training for ad hoc staff, including Presiding Officers (POs) and Assistant Presiding Officers (APOs), across 15 local government areas by Sunday.
Agwu highlighted the commission’s proactive steps to maintain integrity, stating, “Individuals found culpable in previous exercises have been blacklisted to safeguard the credibility of these polls.” This move signals INEC’s determination to uphold electoral standards.
However, Agwu expressed concern over the tactics of some political parties, accusing them of prioritizing propaganda over substantive campaigning.
“Let me emphasize that every candidate approved by INEC is legitimate, but the voters will ultimately decide the outcome,” she remarked.
The Anambra South Senatorial race features a diverse array of candidates, including Mr. Donald Amangbo of the African Democratic Congress (ADC), Mr. Azuka Okwuosa of the All Progressives Congress (APC), and Chief Emma Nwachukwu of the All Progressives Grand Alliance (APGA). Other contenders include Mr. Peter Ekwueme of the New Nigeria People’s Party (NNPP) and Mr. Azubuike Okoli of the Young Progressives Party (YPP), setting the stage for a highly competitive contest.
As the August 16 bye-elections approach, all eyes are on Anambra South and Onitsha North Constituency 1. With INEC’s assurances of a transparent process and a robust lineup of candidates, voters are poised to play a pivotal role in determining their next representatives. The outcomes of these elections will not only fill the vacant seats but also shape the political landscape of Anambra State moving forward.
