As the Anambra State governorship election got underway on Saturday, noticeable pockets of indifference emerged across parts of Awka, where many residents appeared more interested in resuming their daily routines than participating in the polls.
In several neighbourhoods within the state capital, small roadside shops operated as usual, and groups of young men were spotted organizing impromptu football matches on quiet streets—seemingly unbothered by the ongoing election.
Contrastingly, communities such as Okpuno and Mgbakwu, on the outskirts of Awka, recorded modest voter turnout. Residents trickled into polling centres for accreditation, though numbers remained thin in the early hours.
In Uruotulu, an unusual tactic was adopted to boost participation: a mobile town crier moved through the area in a vehicle equipped with loudspeakers, urging residents to make their way to polling units.
“Wherever you are, come out and vote,” he repeatedly announced as he drove by.
At 8:54 a.m., voting was yet to begin at Polling Units 004 and 005 located inside Umuobi Village Hall, Awkuzu. Despite the delay, electorates had already queued in anticipation of the arrival and setup of INEC officials. Security operatives stationed at the venue confirmed that the environment was calm and that no threat had been recorded.
Meanwhile, business activity was gradually picking up around the polling centre. Provision stores opened their doors, and food vendors set up their stalls to serve early voters.
One of the food sellers, Justina Oyibo, explained that she came out to provide meals for residents who would need nourishment while waiting to vote. Another vendor, Grace Igwebuike, noted that many people left their homes before breakfast, adding that offering food nearby made the voting process easier.
Credit: Vanguard
