The heavy security presence deployed during the #AnambraDecides2025 did not stop CJID election observers from being intimidated and harassed across multiple polling units across the state. These incidents presented proof that those tasked with safeguarding the integrity of the vote are being targeted, often simply for performing their duty. So far, three incidents of harassment against observers have been documented:
- Bunukofia LGA – Ezeumuezechua 1 & 2: An observer was harassed by a local resident while noting events around the polling area. The observer had to step back for safety and to avoid confrontation.
- Anambra East LGA – Igbariam Ward 5, Polling Unit 11: An observer was confronted by a presiding officer while documenting a suspected case of vote buying. Despite showing valid accreditation, they were ordered to stop and threatened with removal.
- Ihiala LGA – INEC Office: An observer was assaulted by political thugs while covering reports of vote trading. Their phone was also seized, preventing them from recording evidence of electoral malpractice.
Election observers play a vital role in ensuring free, fair, and credible elections. They act as the eyes and ears of both citizens and civil society, documenting irregularities and reporting them to relevant authorities. Harassment of observers undermines not only individual safety but the credibility of the entire electoral process.
CJID’s monitoring shows that such intimidation is increasingly common during elections in Nigeria, particularly in politically sensitive environments like Anambra. Without protection, observers are unable to perform their role, creating space for malpractices such as vote buying and ballot manipulation.
INEC’s codes for election observers and officials explicitly prohibit assault, harassment, or obstruction of accredited monitors. Yet, as today’s incidents show, these protections are often not enforced – sometimes even by INEC-trained Polling Officers. Strengthening observer safety is essential for upholding the rule of law and the integrity of elections.
CJID continues to document incidents of harassment and provide support to affected observers. The organisation calls on INEC, security agencies, and political parties to ensure that observers can operate freely and safely.
Elections cannot be truly free if the people watching over them are silenced, intimidated, or attacked.
