Governor Chukwuma Soludo Casts His Vote
Governor Chukwuma Soludo cast his vote at Polling Unit 002, Ofeiyi Ward 13, Isiokoo, Aguata LGA at 1:22 p.m. This event marked a significant moment in the ongoing governorship election in Anambra State. As one of the key political figures in the region, his participation underscored the importance of the electoral process and encouraged other citizens to take part.
Dr. George Moghalu Alleges Vote Buying and Voter Apathy
Labour Party’s candidate, Dr. George Moghalu, has raised concerns about vote buying during the current governorship election in Anambra State. He also highlighted the issue of voter apathy, attributing it to a lack of confidence in the electoral process. Speaking to newsmen shortly after casting his vote at Uruagu Ward 1, Nnewi, Moghalu urged INEC to uphold its responsibility of ensuring a credible process.
He stated that while there were no immediate reports of glitches, it was too early to determine if the process was fair and credible. Moghalu emphasized that the presence of monitoring would be crucial in assessing the fairness of the election. He noted an improvement in voting compared to previous elections but expressed skepticism about the concept of free and fair elections when poverty is weaponized.
Moghalu also acknowledged the low voter turnout, which he described as a persistent trend. He called on INEC to improve the process, stating that addressing voter apathy is essential for the integrity of the election.
Security Measures and Optimism for Victory
Dr. George Moghalu praised the deployment of security personnel during the election, expressing satisfaction with the level of security. However, he emphasized that the professionalism of these personnel would be evaluated by the end of the exercise. Moghalu remained optimistic about his chances of victory, citing his extensive campaigning efforts.
He stated that while he had not yet voted, he was awaiting reports from his field officers before making any definitive comments on the process. Moghalu reiterated his belief that power ultimately belongs to God, suggesting that the outcome of the election is beyond human control.
Elderly Woman Denied Voting Opportunity
A 96-year-old woman caused a stir at Polling Unit 019, Umudim Akasi village in Agulu, Anaocha Local Government Area of Anambra State, after she was denied the right to vote due to the absence of her Permanent Voter Card (PVC). Mrs. Elizabeth Onike, who had been voting at the same polling unit for many years, was visibly distressed when officials refused to allow her to vote without the PVC.
She presented various documents to journalists and sympathizers, explaining that she had misplaced her PVC. Despite her efforts, she was unable to locate the card, leading to her frustration and tears. The incident sparked discussions among residents about the need for flexibility in the voting process for elderly voters whose identities could be verified through alternative means.
INEC officials maintained that their directive for the governorship election was clear: no PVC, no voting. They explained that the Bimodal Voter Accreditation System (BVAS) required the physical PVC to authenticate voters before accreditation.
Senior Citizen Casts His Vote
Pa Morrison Okafor, an 80-year-old retiree, exercised his civic duty by casting his vote at Mgbakwu at 10:54 a.m. His participation highlighted the importance of voting among senior citizens, regardless of age.
Long Lines at Polling Units
At polling unit 001, Mgbakwu, Awka North LGA, a large crowd of voters lined up to cast their votes at 10:48 a.m. The long lines indicated a high level of public interest in the election process.
Civil Defence Ensures Security
The Civil Defence Corps Commander and his troop were seen moving around to monitor the situation on Saturday, ensuring that the election process remained secure and orderly.
Deputy Governor Casts His Vote
Anambra Deputy Governor, Dr. Onyeka Ibezim, cast his vote at Central School 3 during the ongoing election. Speaking after voting, Ibezim noted that although it was too early to assess the overall conduct of the election, the process at his polling unit had been seamless and peaceful so far.
Smooth Process at Uruagu Ward 1
Voting continued smoothly at Uruagu Ward 1, Nnewi, with the Presiding Officer confirming a peaceful process at All Saints Primary School, Onitsha. Despite the late commencement, the process was reported to be peaceful, with no issues or disruptions.
Delayed Voting at All Saints Primary School
At All Saints Primary School, Onitsha, voting did not begin until 9:00 a.m. Despite the delay, security personnel were present at the venue to maintain order and ensure a peaceful voting process.
Traders Ignore Election Restrictions
Traders defied election day restrictions by conducting business at Gbarimgba Market, Eke Awka. This highlighted the challenges of enforcing election-related regulations in certain areas.
Voters Line Up at Governor’s Village
Voters lined up for accreditation and voting at Governor Chukwuma Soludo’s village, Ofeiyi Village, Isuofia, Aguata LGA. This event showcased the active participation of local residents in the electoral process.
Youths Continue Activities Amidst Voting
Youths played football as voting continued at All Saints Church, Awka, indicating that the election did not disrupt daily life in the community.
Early Arrival of Materials at Polling Unit 014
At Polling Unit 014 Obi Nnewichi, materials arrived early, allowing voting to commence as scheduled. The Presiding Officer, Anyika Blessing, noted that some materials arrived late but confirmed that the BVAS and other logistics were working smoothly.
Smooth Process at Ward 1 Nnewichi
At Ward 1 Nnewichi 016, located at the central school in Nnewi North local government area, INEC officials arrived around 8am. Although logistics arrived a bit late, accreditation started before 8:30am. The Assistant Presiding officer, Mrs Joy Onyemobi, said the process was going smoothly, adding that they were expecting more voters to join.
Commencement of Accreditation and Voting
Accreditation and voting commenced at 9:38 am at St Michael’s and Angel’s Parish Church, Enu- Ifite Awka. The Presiding Officer, Chibuike Michael, confirmed that despite the late commencement, the process has been peaceful.
Late Start at All Saints Primary School
At All Saints Primary School, Onitsha, voting began at 9:00 a.m. Despite the delay, security personnel were present at the venue to maintain order and ensure a peaceful voting process.
Early Arrival of Materials at Ward 01 Aroma
INEC materials arrived at Ward 01 Aroma at 8:46 a.m., setting the stage for a smooth voting process.