Abuja: Kimpact Development Initiative (KDI), a Civil Society Organisation, on Friday unveiled a 91-page Pre-Election Security Risk Assessment Report ahead of the November 8 Anambra Governorship Election. Mr. Bukola Idowu, Executive Director of KDI, emphasized that the report aims to aid stakeholders, including INEC and security agencies, in ensuring early preparations for a free, fair, and credible election in the state.
According to News Agency of Nigeria, the report was compiled using data from a quantitative sample survey involving 2,057 respondents across 21 local government areas (LGAs). The methodology also included LGA-based monitoring and reporting of incidents and trends, with electoral officials, security personnel, and community leaders involved in the process. Key findings highlight that political violence remains a persistent threat, exacerbated by historical episodes of violence, rivalries among political actors, and public distrust of security agents.
Idowu pointed out significant risks, such as the potential for misinformation and disinformation fueled by AI-generated content, which could manipulate digital information and incite violence. He stressed the importance of INEC tightening logistical arrangements to prevent them from being perceived as platforms for manipulation. Additionally, he underscored the need for security agencies to maintain neutrality and adequate deployment during the election.
The report reveals that threats from non-state actors, such as IPOB, appear weaker than in 2021, but Idowu cautioned against complacency. He advised that INEC should ensure trained personnel are deployed on election day to bridge gaps between preparation and execution. The report also flagged low voter turnout as a critical issue, noting participation in the last election was around 10 percent, necessitating efforts to boost civic engagement.
Idowu noted the political climate in Anambra is calmer compared to 2021 but warned of emerging challenges that could undermine the election’s credibility. He praised the growing willingness of agencies to engage with civil society reports, citing the peaceful conduct of recent elections in Ondo and Edo as positive examples.
William Robinson, Block Lead for Governance and Stability at UKFCDO, emphasized the importance of collaboration among government institutions, political actors, civil society, media, and residents to ensure a peaceful and credible election. He acknowledged the role of initiatives like KDI’s in promoting transparency, reducing violence, and fostering public trust, pledging continued support for these processes to ensure Anambra 2025 reflects the people’s will.
The News Agency of Nigeria reports that the assessment incorporates findings from KDI’s 61 trained long-term monitors deployed across all 21 local government areas of Anambra and neighboring states. The methodology aims to track the pre-election environment, observe trends, and document both electoral and non-electoral violence to combat them effectively.