Voting has commenced peacefully across Anambra State as residents came out early to elect their preferred candidate in today’s governorship election.
As early as 7:00 a.m., officials of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) were already at various polling units across the 21 local government areas of the state, setting up materials and preparing for the exercise. Voting officially began around 8:30 a.m., with security agencies maintaining a strong presence to ensure orderliness.
Shops and major roads remained closed as citizens took advantage of the calm atmosphere to exercise their franchise. In several communities, the streets were largely deserted except for voters making their way to polling centres. Some youths, however, were seen turning empty roads into temporary football pitches, playing as they awaited voting time.
A resident in Awka who spoke to Observers Times said, “We came out early because we want our votes to count this time. INEC officials arrived on time, and everything seems to be going smoothly.”
Security was visibly tight across the state. The popular Onitsha Bridge was cordoned off by security operatives, restricting both vehicular and pedestrian movement. Helicopters were seen hovering over parts of the state as part of surveillance efforts to ensure a hitch-free election.
INEC confirmed that materials were distributed to all polling units before the commencement of voting, adding that the process was progressing as planned.
A total of 16 candidates are contesting the governorship seat, while over two million registered voters are expected to participate in the poll.
