INEC Extends Anambra Voter Registration Amid High Turnout, Peaceful Process and Youth Engagement Surge

 

The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has approved a three-day extension of the Continuous Voter Registration (CVR) exercise in Anambra State following an impressive turnout and public appeals. Originally slated to conclude on Thursday, July 17, the exercise will now run until Sunday, July 20, 2025.

This decision came after a routine weekly meeting of the Commission, during which members reviewed progress on the upcoming off-cycle governorship election in the state. The meeting also covered recent applications for registration submitted by aspiring political parties.

The Commission expressed satisfaction with the level of public participation and the orderly conduct of the exercise across all 326 designated registration centres in the state. The peaceful atmosphere and cooperation from residents were key highlights of the report, according to Sam Olumekun, National Commissioner and Chairman of the Information and Voter Education Committee.

From the data presented, 96,085 new voters successfully completed their registration within a period of just nine days. This figure translates to an average of over 10,600 new registrants daily, a number that demonstrates growing civic interest and enthusiasm for electoral participation in the region.

Further details provided by the Commission show that in addition to new voter enrollments, 12,595 individuals applied to transfer their voter registration records, both within Anambra and from other states. Another 7,061 citizens requested updates to their personal data or replacement of damaged or missing Permanent Voter Cards (PVCs).

Such statistics reflect not only a surge in civic engagement but also growing public confidence in the voter registration process. The Commission acknowledged these developments as encouraging indicators ahead of the governorship election.

The decision to extend the CVR exercise followed numerous appeals from citizens, advocacy groups and political stakeholders across the state. These appeals cited the need for more time to accommodate potential registrants who may have faced logistical or personal challenges during the initial registration window.

The extension is seen as part of INEC’s broader strategy to enhance inclusivity and ensure no eligible voter is left out of the electoral process. The Commission reiterated its commitment to making electoral services accessible, timely and transparent.

Following the conclusion of the CVR on July 20, the next phase will involve the public display of the preliminary voter register. This step is crucial for claims and objections, allowing citizens to flag inaccuracies or request corrections in line with provisions of the Electoral Act. The Commission will then subject the data to further scrutiny using the Automated Biometric Identification System (ABIS), which is designed to eliminate instances of multiple registration and other irregularities.

A detailed demographic breakdown of the new registrants is also set to be released to the public. Preliminary figures show that 58 percent of the newly registered voters, totaling 56,017, are female. Meanwhile, young people between the ages of 18 and 34 make up 52.48 percent of the total with 50,429 registrants.

This demographic tilt toward youth and female participation is particularly noteworthy as it signals a shifting political engagement dynamic in Anambra. Analysts suggest that increased youth involvement could significantly impact the political landscape, especially as Nigeria continues to grapple with voter apathy and disillusionment in some regions.

INEC emphasized that it remains committed to upholding the integrity of the voter registration process and preparing adequately for the forthcoming governorship poll. The Commission called on all stakeholders, including political parties, civil society organizations and the media, to support efforts geared toward deepening democracy through credible and inclusive elections.

Residents of Anambra are advised to take advantage of the remaining days of the extended CVR window to complete their registration or resolve pending issues related to their voter information. The Commission also reminded citizens that having an updated and accurate voter card is essential for participation in future electoral exercises.

With preparations gaining momentum and voter registration figures steadily rising, attention now shifts to the effectiveness of the next stages: verification, data cleaning, and voter education. The performance of these steps will be critical in setting the tone for what could be a pivotal election in the state's political history.