7 things you should know about governorship race

The Anambra State gubernatorial election will finally take place this weekend. Here is a quick rundown of everything you need to know about it:

1. The election will be conducted by theIndependent National Electoral Commission (INEC)on Saturday, November 18, 2017.

INEC chairman, Prof. Mahmood Yakubu, has advised voters to get to the polling units by 8am to make sure the electoral process works according to plan.

2. A record number of 37 candidates from 37 political parties are in contention for the governor's seat. The state's incumbent governor, Willie Obiano of the All Progressives' Grand Alliance (APGA), will face stiff competition from Oseloka Obaze of the People's Democratic Party (PDP) and Tony Nwoye of the All Progressives' Congress (APC).

Check the full list of candidates here.

3. According to the Delta State Police Command, there will be a restriction of vehicular movement on the popular Niger Bridge during the election. The restriction will commence from 12am on Friday, November 17, till after the election.

Only people on official or emergency duties with genuine means of identification would be allowed passage.

4. The Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) has revealed that it will deploy 11,000 officers from seven states as well as 300 dogs for the conduct of the election.

The Anambra State Commandant of the Corps, Mr. John Ahwe, said four drones, ambulances and medical teams as well as 115 vehicles will also be deployed.

On their own part, the police will deploy about 21,000 officers as well as use water boats and helicopters to ensure a safe election.

5. The state's House of Assembly election for Idemili North constituency will also take place on Saturday.

ALSO READ: Who won Anambra governorship debate?

6. For full participation, Governor Obiano has declared Friday, November 17, as a work-free day to enable civil servants to relocate to their electoral wards and vote.

7. Dr Nkwachukwu Orji is the state's Resident Electoral Commissioner (REC) for the election.