The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has issued stern warnings to political parties, candidates, and voters ahead of Saturday’s governorship election in Anambra State, cautioning against any form of electoral malpractice or conduct capable of breaching the peace.

In a statement posted Friday on its official X handle, the commission outlined a list of prohibited actions at polling units, warning that violators would face legal consequences.

INEC reminded contestants that they are barred from campaigning or attempting to influence voters on election day.

“No candidate shall canvass for votes, solicit for the vote of any voter, persuade any voter not to vote for any particular candidate, or shout slogans concerning the election,” the commission stated.

The electoral umpire also cautioned against acts of intimidation, warning that contestants and their supporters must not be in possession of offensive weapons or wear any apparel designed to threaten voters.

“Contestants and their supporters must not be in possession of any offensive weapon or wear any dress or facial decoration calculated to intimidate voters,” INEC warned.

The commission further prohibited the display of party symbols or campaign materials at polling venues.

“No one is allowed to exhibit, wear or tender any notice, symbol, photograph, or party card referring to the election, or use vehicles bearing the colour or symbol of a political party by any means whatsoever,” it stated.

INEC also urged voters to conduct themselves peacefully and leave the polling area immediately after casting their ballots.

“No contestant, supporter, or voter should loiter without excuse after voting or after being refused to vote; snatch or destroy any election materials, or blare a siren,” the commission cautioned.

Meanwhile, INEC confirmed that distribution of sensitive and non-sensitive election materials to the 21 local government areas of the state began on Thursday. The dispatch was conducted from the Central Bank of Nigeria office in Awka under tight security.

Saturday’s election, which will be conducted across 5,718 polling units, will see 16 political parties contesting, including two female candidates, with 2.7 million registered voters expected to participate.

Observers say the exercise will serve as another key test of Nigeria’s democratic process and INEC’s preparedness to deliver a credible, free, and fair election. (The PUNCH)