Concerns Rise Over Democratic Fairness in Anambra Ahead of 2025 Governorship Election

The democratic process in Anambra State is facing growing concern following recent developments that appear to target opposition parties ahead of the upcoming November 8 Governorship Election.

In a surprising and concerning move, the Anambra State Signage and Advertisement Agency (ANSSA), under the directive of the state government, introduced a staggering ₦50 million levy as a mandatory campaign fee for political parties. This payment is required before any party can embark on public campaigns or deploy political advertorials across the state.

Despite this burdensome policy, the Young Progressives Party (YPP) and its governorship candidate, Sir Paul Chukwuma, complied with the regulation in good faith — paying the full ₦50 million fee in line with his commitment to fair competition and democratic decorum.

However, shortly after YPP campaign materials were professionally mounted at Unizik Junction in Awka by ESMIC International Ltd, a registered and licensed advertising firm, the billboard was unlawfully dismantled by ANSSA, allegedly under direct instructions from government authorities.

This troubling action echoes previous incidents during the lead-up to the 2023 Presidential Elections, where similar campaign materials from other parties were removed without justification. Such practices raise serious questions about the commitment of the Anambra State Government to open, fair, and inclusive democratic participation.

The YPP strongly believes that democracy thrives on plurality, equal access, and respect for opposing views — not on suppression or administrative intimidation.

We therefore call on:

• Civil society organizations,

• The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), and

• The good people of Anambra State

…to rise and defend the democratic space from the kind of political highhandedness that discourages free expression and legitimate participation.

The YPP remains steadfast, focused on issue-based campaigns and committed to offering Ndi Anambra a credible, people-oriented alternative. Our party believes that leadership should be earned through service, not enforced through suppression.

We trust that the people of Anambra will speak decisively at the polls on November 8 and reject every attempt to stifle their voice.

Democracy must not only be preserved — it must be protected at every level.

Ka anyi dozie Anambra. Ka anyi mee ka o mee.