CDD expresses concern over crisis within Nigeria major political parties

CDD expresses concern over crisis within Nigeria major political parties 

NKIRU NWAGBO. AWKA.

 The Centre for Democracy and Development (CDD-West Africa) has expressed concerns over internal crisis  within Nigeria's major political parties, saying it has weakened electoral competitiveness in the Anambra governorship election.

Addressing a press conference in Awka, Anambra State capital, Director, CDD-West Africa, Dr. Dauda Garuba, stated, "A major concern in the Anambra governorship election is that the political parties have not demonstrated the capacity to mobilise and sensitise voters."

"The internal crisis within Nigeria's major political parties at the moment has weakened electoral competitiveness in the Anambra governorship election," Garuba, flanked by Chair, Election Analysis Centre, Professor Victor Adetula, said.

Garuba, highlighted security threats in Ihiala, Nnewi South, Orumba South, and border communities, citing weakuuuu oversight of vigilante groups.

"Security threats remain a major concern in Ihiala, Nnewi South, Orumba South, and border communities such as Lilu, Azia, and Amorka. Weak oversight of vigilante groups and the long standing violent environment contribute to a low risk of voter turnout. Security agencies must act professionally and protect voters without bias."

The organisation noted that the Anambra State Signage and Advertisement Agency (ANSAA) permit fee of N50 million for political parties limits access and increases campaign costs, capped at N1 billion under the 2022 Electoral Act.

"APGA and the incumbent governor benefit from visibility advantages, new strategic political alignments and control of state influence channels. The Anambra State Signage and Advertisement Agency (ANSAA) announced on June 11, 2025, that it had set a permit fee of N50million for political parties wishing to use billboards and conduct other outdoor campaign activities. This limits access for different political parties and increases the cost of campaigns, which are capped at N1 billion under Section 88(2) of the 2022 Electoral Act."

Although the organisation noted that INEC has taken steps to improve preparations, however, "confidence remains fragile. The CVR process exposed logistical gaps that must be urgently addressed. The judiciary also has a crucial responsibility; delayed rulings and uncertainty over candidate eligibility continue to damage public trust."

CDD-West Africa called on INEC to maintain neutrality, ensure seamless electoral processes, and timely deployment of voting materials. Security agencies were urged to protect citizens without intimidation or selective enforcement.

The group also appealed to political parties to shun vote buying, commit to peaceful conduct, and support inclusive participation.

The organisation revealed that it has deployed 178 trained and accredited observers across all 21 local government areas, "with our methodology targeting polling units with high volumes and a prior history of election-related issues."

It added, "We have also deployed 57 grassroots monitors known as "Soldiers of Mouth" who will help in addressing information disorder incidents, corroborate fact-checks and help us monitor the ways that parties, politicians and even members of the public engage in disinformation. Also, we have deployed 30 mandate protection observers who will spot and report any electoral irregularities to the relevant agencies."

Garuba stated that with its Election Analysis Centre (EAC) now fully operational, "our disinformation experts will be working throughout the period to monitor, fact-check, and respond to emerging narratives. Citizens are encouraged to report suspicious content to our WhatsApp helpline.

"The 2025 Anambra Governorship election is more than a sub-national election. CDD-West Africa calls on all actors to prioritise national interest, protect democratic integrity, and ensure a peaceful. credible and inclusive election.