The International Press Centre (IPC) has voiced concern over the delayed deployment of some officials of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) in Onitsha, which reportedly caused anxiety among voters.
Lanre Arogundade of IPC disclosed that certain INEC staff had to leave the commission’s office due to a lack of adequate facilities.
“At 8:30 a.m., officials were just about to leave for polling units. This delay is worrisome,” he said.
He explained that while the first set of officials arrived at polling units as early as 7:07 a.m., others got there as late as 8:10 a.m. By 8:30 a.m., preparations had been concluded, voter registers pasted, and voting was ready to commence.
“These delays at the start of accreditation can create uncertainty. We hope officials arrive at all units on time,” Arogundade added.
He further stated that no major incidents had been recorded but warned that BVAS malfunctions could affect the credibility of the election.
Meanwhile, Situation Room observer Dimma Nwobi alleged that vote-buying took place in some polling areas.
Officials of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) were also spotted monitoring several locations after reports of such activities emerged, while residents noted minor BVAS challenges during the voting process.
In Nkwo Igboukwu, Aguata Local Government Area, some traders opened shops despite the election. According to reports, market leaders later intervened.
“When we arrived, business was ongoing. Market masters later ordered everyone to close and warned of a ₦10,000 fine for defaulters,” a source said, adding that some traders expressed “disinterest” in voting.
INEC records show that Aguata has 150,575 collected Permanent Voter Cards (PVCs). Across Anambra, 2,769,137 voters, representing 98.8% of registered voters, collected their PVCs and were expected to vote across 5,718 polling units in 21 local government areas.
Officials deployed early to polling centres in Awka South, Amawbia, and Ekwulobia, while voting began peacefully at Fegge Community Primary School in Onitsha.
Samson Itodo, Executive Director of Yiaga Africa, stated that political parties must take responsibility for the ongoing voter apathy.
“If voters are not showing up, parties are failing in communication and trust,” he said.
Civil society representative Jake Epelle described the security situation as calm, while INEC Chairman Professor Joash Amupitan was urged to ensure the credibility of the election, stressing that “no excuses for failure will be accepted.”
The election is being conducted across three senatorial districts with sixteen candidates participating. Commissioner of Police Abayomi Shogunle assured voters of a peaceful process, confirming that potential threats in high-risk areas had been contained.