Awka, Anambra State | Security has been tightened across Awka metropolis and adjoining communities as Anambra prepares for its highly anticipated governorship election scheduled for November 8.
A Hobnob News correspondent who monitored the situation observed an unusual calm in the capital city, with heavy security presence and last-minute preparations in progress ahead of the polls.
Security operatives were strategically stationed around the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) headquarters in Awka, where vehicular movements were diverted to local routes to ensure smooth operations.
Along the Nibo–Nise axis in Awka South Local Government Area, armed personnel were seen positioned at key points, maintaining order while allowing free movement of residents and vehicles.
Some residents expressed mixed feelings over the heavy security presence.
Mrs. Ifeoma Egbo, a trader at Eke Awka Market, said the air patrols and visible deployment of armed officers had heightened public anxiety.
“There are security men in uniforms in almost every corner, and the sounds of air raids are making people tense,” she said. “It might even scare some voters, especially the elderly, from coming out on election day.”
Another trader, Mrs. Grace Anagor, told Hobnob News that while the environment was tense, business activities were brisk as residents rushed to shop ahead of the election.
“People are buying in large numbers, unlike regular weekends,” she said. “But I’m glad security agents are on ground—it shows the government is prepared. I just hope they operate professionally and treat citizens with respect.”
The Anambra State Police Command and other security agencies had earlier announced the deployment of 60,000 officers and military personnel across 5,720 polling units to maintain law and order during the election.
Meanwhile, INEC confirmed a 98.8% Permanent Voter Card (PVC) collection rate across the state, an encouraging figure that signals high voter readiness.
As election day approaches, residents are hopeful that the process will be peaceful, transparent, and credible — marking another milestone in Anambra’s democratic journey.
