Voting has officially commenced in the Anambra State governorship election, with residents trooping out early on Saturday to elect the next occupant of the state’s highest political office.
The exercise began around 8:30 a.m. across the 21 local government areas of the South-East state, following the timely deployment of election materials and personnel by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC).
As early as 7:00 a.m., INEC officials and security operatives were seen at various polling units setting up for the day’s exercise. Shops and business premises remained closed, while major roads were largely deserted as residents turned out to cast their votes.
In some communities, however, young people were seen engaging in early morning football matches on empty streets as they awaited the voting process to begin.
At the popular Onitsha Bridge, security agencies cordoned off the area, restricting both vehicular and pedestrian movement. Helicopters were also spotted hovering overhead as part of efforts to maintain surveillance and ensure a peaceful and orderly election.
According to INEC, sixteen candidates are contesting for the governorship position, with more than two million registered voters expected to participate in the poll.
Security agencies have assured residents of a hitch-free and credible election, as the state decides who will lead it for the next four years.
