New York, April 14, 2007—Africans In America News Watch’s special election monitors and reporters stationed at Nnobi, Nnewi, Awka, Aguata, Onitsha and other parts of the state to monitor Nigeria general election are reporting that scheduled election did not take place in Anambra State today April 14, 2007 due to series of irregularities.

Her Excellency, Dame Virgy Etiaba (Popularly called, “Mama Anambra”)

In most voting polls, Her Excellency Dame Virgy Etiaba’s pictures were missing. Only her names and party logo were posted. Nigeria President Obasanjo’s arch-nemesis, Dr. Chris Ngige’s names were not seen at all. All other candidates’ information were posted intact. These fuel the suspicion that Her Excellency Etiaba followed by Ngige, the 2 most credible and popular candidates may have been the target of the irregularities, according to our reporters.

In parts of Nnobi town, the voting materials were reportedly set on fire by unknown individuals when they noticed that the names of their candidate was not on the candidates’ list.

Shortly after the incident, a contingent of Nigerian army and the police invaded the town and arrested few bystanders, according to reports. The reason why the polling centers were left vulnerable remains unknown. That was it for Nnobi sector.

In parts of Nnewi, our reporters indicate that INEC officers arrived without result sheet contrary to INEC regulation. Some INEC officers were seen with particular political party officials having lunch and drinking at nearby restaurant/beer parlors.

In Awka North, INEC office was reportedly burnt down, but our reporters have not confirmed reports that 2 or more individuals may have died, also.

Our pollsters on the ground indicate that industrialists, service industries, businesses, all religious denominations, the voiceless artisans and masses are unanimous in their support for Her Excellency, Mrs. Etiaba, the tested and reliable first female to briefly rule the state as interim Executive Governor for 3 month from November 3, 2006 to February 7, 2007. The pollsters indicate that if a free and fair election is held, and actual votes counted, Mrs. Etiaba will win Anambra State by 75% margin, cleanly.

However, those opposed to Mrs. Etiaba are in control of the election agency, the police and all the security apparatus, including the armed forces.