Massive security presence was seen on Saturday across Onitsha and Nnewi in Anambra State, as residents headed to the polls for two crucial by-elections.
The elections are being held to fill two vacant positions — one in the Anambra State House of Assembly (Onitsha North 1 Constituency) and the other in the Senate (Anambra South Senatorial Zone).
The Onitsha North 1 seat became vacant after the tragic killing of Hon. Justice Azuka, who was kidnapped and later found dead last year. The Anambra South Senate seat has remained vacant since the death of Senator Ifeanyi Ubah in 2024.
To ensure peace during the elections, a heavy deployment of security forces, including the police and Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps, was observed across the two cities.
Spokesperson of the Anambra State Police Command, SP Tochukwu Ikenga, said that Assistant Inspector General of Police (AIG) Godwin Eze has been assigned to supervise the election. He assured voters of adequate security and urged residents to remain calm and law-abiding.
In Onitsha North, the ruling All Progressives Grand Alliance (APGA) is fielding Barr Mimih Ifeoma Azikiwe, who hails from the respected Ikpeazu family and is married into the Azikiwe family. She is facing strong competition from the African Democratic Congress (ADC) candidate, Mrs Justina Azuka, widow of the late lawmaker. The ADC candidate has reportedly gained wide support, including from Labour Party presidential hopeful, Mr. Peter Obi.
In the Anambra South senatorial race, the All Progressives Congress (APC) is hoping to retain the seat with its candidate, Engr Azuka Okwuosa. APGA is also in the contest, represented by Chief Emma Nwachukwu.
Election observers, political supporters, and security personnel are keeping close watch as the polls continue in both constituencies.
