Low voter turnout mars Anambra LG poll

The recent Anambra State Local Government election was marred by low voter turnout in several areas within the Awka North and Awka South Local Government Areas. Despite voting materials arriving early, the absence of opposition parties led to a lack of competition in all but one of the 20 Local Governments out of the 21 across the state.

The only party to field candidates in 20 of the 21 LGs was the All Progressives Grand Alliance (APGA). However, only the Young Progressives Party (YPP) contested in Anambra East. This scenario led to a disheartening voter turnout, with residents continuing their daily activities and businesses as security operatives patrolled the areas.

The Commissioner of Police in Anambra, CP Nnanna Ama, led a team to monitor the election security, ensuring residents could exercise their civic duties without fear or intimidation. Likewise, the National Security Commission (NSCDC) Commandant, Olatunde Maku, also monitored the event, reporting a peaceful atmosphere and orderly voter conduct.

In Onitsha South, the election saw low participation, with voters commending the early arrival of the ANSIEC officials at polling centers. The election, which was set to take place across all 21 Local Government Areas and 326 wards, featured unopposed APGA candidates in 20 LGAs, except Anambra East, where a YPP candidate contested.

As the collation and announcement of results commenced at the ANSIEC office in Awka, optimism was expressed that the election would conclude peacefully.