As voting commenced in the Anambra State governorship election on Saturday, several parts of Awka, the state capital, witnessed widespread voter apathy, with many residents appearing more focused on daily routines than the electoral process.
Across various neighbourhoods in Awka, small roadside shops opened for business, while groups of young men organized street football matches on otherwise quiet roads, showing little interest in the election.
However, some outlying communities such as Okpuno and Mgbakwu recorded modest voter participation, as residents slowly made their way to polling centres for accreditation.
In Uruotulu, efforts were made to increase turnout through a mobile town crier who drove around in a vehicle fitted with loudspeakers, urging residents to go out and cast their votes.
“Wherever you are, come out and vote,” the announcer repeatedly declared as he moved through the community.
At Polling Units 004 and 005 inside Umuobi Village Hall, Awkuzu, voting had not started as of 8:54 a.m., although several voters were already in line awaiting the arrival and setup of Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) officials. Security personnel at the venue confirmed that the environment remained calm with no reports of disturbances.
Meanwhile, nearby businesses gradually resumed operations as provision stores and food vendors opened to serve residents and early voters.
One food vendor, Justina Oyibo, said she came out to provide meals for people who might spend long hours at polling centres. Another, Grace Igwebuike, explained that many residents left home without breakfast, adding that selling food nearby made the process more convenient.
While enthusiasm appeared low in parts of the capital, voting activities were gradually gaining momentum in some outskirts, with election officials working to mobilize greater participation.
