Anambra polls: Senator Umeh urges transparency in election result uploads, warns against manipulation

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By Sunny A. David, Awka

Senator Victor Umeh, representing the Anambra Central Senatorial District, has urged the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to ensure transparency in the ongoing Anambra State Governorship Election by promptly uploading results to the IReV portal.

Speaking with journalists after casting his vote alongside his wife in his hometown, Agulu, Senator Umeh emphasized the need for every eligible voter to participate responsibly and resist the temptation of vote buying. He described voting as a civic duty that should reflect the true will of the people.

The Senator, a veteran political figure with over two decades of experience in Anambra politics, revealed that he intentionally refrained from active campaign involvement in this election cycle.

Umeh noted that he had played significant roles in five previous governorship elections supporting Peter Obi in 2003 and 2010, Willie Obiano in 2013, Oseloka Obaze in 2017, and Charles Soludo in 2021.

Umeh commended the peaceful atmosphere across polling centers, praising both INEC officials and security agencies for their professionalism and preparedness. He observed that the voting process was largely smooth, with minimal reports of BVAS malfunctions or security challenges.

However, the Senator warned that maintaining electoral integrity goes beyond a peaceful voting process. He cautioned against result manipulation during collation, stressing that the credibility of the election depends on the accurate reflection of the people’s mandate.

Describing vote buying as a “serious threat to democracy,” Umeh condemned citizens who sell their votes, stating that it undermines their right to demand accountability from leaders. He urged voters to assess candidates based on competence and character rather than financial inducements.

He also called on security agencies to remain vigilant and arrest anyone involved in vote buying or election malpractice.

While commending INEC’s commitment to transparency through electronic result transmission, Umeh advised the commission to avoid technical glitches that could cast doubt on the credibility of the process.

He concluded by praying for a peaceful and credible election outcome, expressing optimism that the final results would truly reflect the wishes of Anambra’s electorate.