SIDEC Mobilises Anambra Traders Ahead of November 8 Governorship Election
The Social and Integral Development Centre (SIDEC) has called on traders across Anambra State to participate actively in the forthcoming November 8, 2025 governorship election, stressing that their involvement is vital to strengthening democracy and improving governance outcomes in the state.
SIDEC expressed concern that voter apathy has remained a major setback to democratic consolidation in Anambra, noting that only about 92,000 out of over 2.6 million registered voters took part in the 2021 governorship election,a turnout the organization described as “alarmingly low and democratically unhealthy.”
The organization is currently implementing the Inclusive Mobilization for Participation, Advocacy and Civic Transformation (Project IMPACT) in partnership with the Nigeria Civil Society Situation Room, with funding support from the UK Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (UK-FCDO).
The project aims to deepen citizens’ participation in governance and promote electoral accountability.
Speaking during a voter education session at Ochanja Market, Onitsha, the Executive Director of SIDEC, Mrs. Ugochi Ehiahuruike, emphasized that good governance is achievable only when citizens take ownership of the political process.
“It is not their government but our government,” “We all must take responsibility for the quality of leadership we get, and one way to do that is by turning out to vote for candidates of our choice.”she said.
Ehiahuruike urged traders not to leave the fate of the state in the hands of a few voters, stressing that apathy empowers mediocrity and weakens accountability.
“November 8 is not a day for football, movies, or business as usual,” “It is a day to decide the destiny of Anambra for the next four years. Even if you choose not to vote, those who vote will determine the direction of our collective future. Come out and be counted.”she declared.
She reassured participants that the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has reiterated its commitment to credible polls and the sanctity of every ballot.
“INEC has assured Nigerians that every vote will count,” “So let your voter’s card be your voice. Speak loudly and clearly for the Anambra you desire.”she said.
The SIDEC Director also appealed to political actors, party supporters, and citizens to ensure peace before, during, and after the election, noting that no development can thrive in an atmosphere of violence.
“The peace of Anambra is not negotiable,” “Parents must counsel their children to resist any temptation to engage in violence. No political gain is worth the blood of any citizen.”she stressed.
On the issue of inclusion, Mrs. Ehiahuruike reminded Persons with Disabilities (PWDs) that they have equal rights to participate in the electoral process, noting that INEC has promised to provide braille ballots, magnifying glasses, and priority voting at polling units to enhance accessibility.
“Your voice matters and your vote counts,” “Do not be discouraged by any challenge come out and participate fully.”she said.
In his remarks, the Vice Chairman of Ochanja Market, Mr. Samson Okeke, commended SIDEC for its sustained voter education and civic engagement initiatives.
“We appreciate SIDEC for enlightening us,” “You’ve reminded us that democracy only works when the people participate. We will mobilize our members to come out and vote for candidates of their choice.”Okeke said.
He added that traders have learned the long-term dangers of vote-selling and are resolved to vote responsibly.
“We’ve realized that selling our votes means selling our future,” “This time, we will vote wisely and hold our leaders accountable.”he said.
The SIDEC team later moved around the market, distributing voter education materials, engaging traders in interactive discussions, and encouraging them to participate actively in the forthcoming election.
