…Demands Credible Poll

The Chancellor of the Eastern Mandate Union (EMU) and Chairman of Fourth Dimension Publishers, Dr. Arthur Nwankwo has endorsed the candidate of the United Progressive Party (UPP) in the Anambra governorship election, Chief Osita Chidoka, even as he tasks the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to conduct of a credible poll that reflects only the will of the people.

Nwankwo, who stated this position in a statement on Thursday in Enugu, urged INEC to do all to immune itself against any external influence that may compromise the sanctity of the process.

Chief Osita Chidoka

He said though the election presents a tough choice for the people due to the quality of the candidates, Chidoka, from an objective point of view ranks highest among others given his track record of performance and articulated blueprint for the state.

“As an active observer of the political process, not just of Anambra state but also of the Nigeria state, I have keenly followed the trajectory of the campaigns; as well as the deluge of promises oozing out from the cooking mills of the various political parties and candidates.

“Given the pedigree of some of the contestants, I am minded to state that we as a people have a tough choice to make. I have no doubt in my mind that our people deserve the best from the vast array of candidates jostling for the governorship position in the State.

Nwankwo noted that Anambra is in dire need of a patriotic and visionary leader who is capable of exploring new frontiers for the development of the state, adding that these qualities are prominent in Chidoka.

“I was thrilled as he rolled out his master-plan and vision for the development of the agricultural, industrial, education, health, infrastructural, and human capital sectors. I was impressed with his vision for economic integration in Anambra State and the entire Southeast. I saw the embodiment of Igbo patriotism, never-say-die attitude and stoicism.

I saw a man full of determination and willingness to explore new frontiers; a man at home with trajectory of his people, their history and narratives”, Nwankwo said.

Urging Anambra people to shun the election boycott sentiments and participate fully in the process, Nwankwo charged INEC not to allow external influences compromise the credibility of the process.

“This brings me to the question of the readiness of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) in conducting credible, free and fair governorship election in Anambra State.

Even though INEC has at various times declared its readiness to do a good job, one is disturbed by the numerous claims by some of the candidates that the election has been concluded and that November 18, 2017 is a day set aside to put a seal of approval on what has been done. I hope this is not true”, he said.

He also charged the people to remain law-abiding and shun all acts of violence during the process.