The much-anticipated local government elections in Anambra State, originally scheduled to begin at 8:00 AM, have faced significant delays due to the late arrival of election materials and officials from the Anambra State Independent Electoral Commission (ANSIEC). As of 10:00 AM, several polling units across the state were yet to receive necessary materials, causing frustration among voters.
In various locations, including the Ukwuorji polling unit in the Awka South Local Government Area, security personnel and a handful of voters were present, but ANSIEC officials who were meant to oversee the election had not arrived. At the Aroma area of Awka, similar scenes were observed as voters continued to wait for the voting process to begin.
ANSIEC had previously announced that the election would be conducted manually. At the ANSIEC headquarters, a commission official assured the public that all necessary materials had been distributed to the 21 local government areas in the state. However, there seemed to be delays in getting the materials to the polling units on time, despite the 8:00 AM target for the commencement of the election.
In Ihiala Local Government Area, where specific security concerns had been raised, the situation remained tense. The police had earlier announced that voting in security-challenged communities such as Azia, Orsumoghu, Mbosi, Lilu, and Isekke would only take place at the council headquarters for safety reasons. Despite these arrangements, there was little activity in the area by mid-morning.
The Anambra State government had earlier declared a “no movement” day to ensure smooth election conduct, and this resulted in empty streets across the state. Only a few individuals were seen heading to their respective voting centers, adding to the sense of unease.
Voters at several polling units expressed their disappointment at the delays, noting that the late arrival of officials and materials could discourage people from participating. Many had arrived early in the morning, eager to cast their votes, only to be left waiting for hours.
The delayed start of the election raised concerns about voter turnout and the overall credibility of the process, as many people feared the late arrival of election materials could lead to a rushed voting exercise or even disenfranchisement in certain areas.
Despite the setbacks, security operatives remained on alert, waiting for ANSIEC officials to arrive so that the election could begin without further disruption. As the day progressed, voters hoped that the process would eventually kick off smoothly, allowing them to exercise their democratic rights.
The situation underscores the challenges facing local elections in the region, where logistical issues and security threats continue to be significant
obstacles.
