The Imo State local government elections, held on Saturday, saw a strong voter turnout despite the late arrival of election materials in some areas. The elections, which many had predicted would see low participation, drew significant attention from residents across the state, with voters turning out early at numerous polling stations.
In Owerri, the capital city of Imo State, and surrounding communities like Egbu and Irete, voters began arriving at polling units as early as 7:30 a.m. The enthusiasm of the electorate was evident, despite the delayed distribution of voting materials.
At the Owerri Municipal Local Government Headquarters, there was a slight hiccup when the main gate remained locked until 8:54 a.m. Scores of voters, along with electoral officers, were seen waiting outside the premises. However, this did not dampen the spirits of the voters, as many continued to wait patiently for the election process to begin.
In other areas such as Bishop Lesbery, Irete, Mount Carmel Primary School in Emekuku, and Oha Egbu Town Hall, voters gathered in large numbers, eagerly waiting for the arrival of materials so the voting could start. Security presence was also notable at these locations, with officers from various agencies stationed to ensure a peaceful voting process.
However, some voters expressed frustration with the delays. Mr. Chizomam Etonyeanku, a prospective voter, expressed his concern, stating, “The process ought to commence early to avoid dragging into the late hours, which gives room for manipulation and violence.”
In Owerri North, at Akwakuma Girls’ Secondary School, Mrs. Jane Iwuagwu pointed to the significance of the Supreme Court’s recent ruling, which granted financial autonomy to local governments, as a reason for the increased voter interest. “We are hopeful that whoever emerges as the chairman must be mindful that he owes a duty to develop the rural communities because he shall be accountable for the funds collected,” she said. Iwuagwu also hoped for a free and fair election without any irregularities.
Despite the elections, daily activities continued in some areas of Owerri. Business operations were in full swing on streets like Wethedral, Egbu, and Orji Roads, with shops and commuter buses functioning as usual. At Ekeukwu Market, located on Douglas Road, traders continued their businesses even as the election was underway.
Security was heavily enforced across the state, especially at the headquarters of the State Independent Electoral Commission (SIEC) in Owerri, where military personnel and other paramilitary agencies were stationed. According to the Police Public Relations Officer, ASP Henry Okoye, adequate security forces were deployed across the state to ensure a peaceful election. He also confirmed that the Commissioner of Police, Mr. Aboki Danjuma, was personally monitoring the situation on the ground to maintain order.
