Awka, the capital city of Anambra State in southeastern Nigeria, and its surrounding areas were under tight security on Friday as residents prepared for the governorship election scheduled for Saturday, November 8.
A correspondent who monitored developments across the state observed an atmosphere of unusual calm, with residents carrying out last-minute activities ahead of the polls. There was a noticeable presence of security personnel around strategic locations, particularly the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) headquarters in Awka.
Vehicular movements were diverted to alternative routes to ease congestion near the electoral offices, while checkpoints were visible along major roads. Along the Nibo–Nise axis in Awka South Local Government Area, security operatives were stationed at key points, allowing free but cautious movement of people and vehicles.
A trader at Eke Awka Market, Mrs. Ifeoma Egbo, told reporters that while the heavy security presence signaled readiness, it also created anxiety among residents.
“There are security men in uniforms in almost all the areas,” she said. “The sounds of air raids have added to the tension, and I fear this may discourage elderly voters from coming out.”
Okay News reports that the Nigerian security agencies had earlier deployed about 60,000 personnel, including police officers and military units, to secure 5,720 polling units across the state.
Another trader, Mrs. Grace Anagor, noted that business activities appeared to increase as residents rushed to make weekend purchases before election day. She expressed optimism about the government’s preparedness, adding, “The security presence reassures us that the election will be peaceful. We just hope the officers operate with professionalism and kindness.”
The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) announced that it had achieved a 98.8 percent Permanent Voter Card (PVC) collection rate ahead of the poll, emphasizing that all logistics were in place to ensure a credible and transparent election.
As the state braces for the crucial vote, residents expressed mixed feelings of confidence and apprehension, hoping that peace and order would prevail throughout the process.
