Some residents, like Hope, a trader, have lost faith in the electoral process, believing their votes won’t count due to potential manipulation. Others, like James Ogunshola, an entrepreneur, remain optimistic, expecting a free and fair election.
According to The Cable, Hope did not have a reason to vote, unlike during the administration of former Governor Adams Oshiomhole. She said:
Youth leader John is confident of a peaceful election and a Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) victory, citing the need for continuity of Obaseki’s policies.
To ensure a secure voting environment, Chief of Defence Staff Christopher Musa has warned local security networks and vigilantes to steer clear of election duties. The military has been deployed to guarantee a credible election.
Recall that the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) stated that over 2.2 million registered voters with permanent voter cards are expected to cast their ballots on Saturday.
The Saturday election has been described as a race between the candidates of the All Progressives Congress (APC), the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and the Labour Party. The candidates are Monday Okpebholo, Asue Ighedalo and Olumide Akpata.
Source: TimesNow.com.ng