Some traders at Nkwo Igboukwu Market in Aguata Local Government Area of Anambra State opened their shops on Saturday despite the ongoing 2025 governorship election.
Market activities were reported to be in full swing early in the morning before market leaders intervened. According to eyewitnesses, the leaders directed traders to close their shops and return home to cast their votes, warning that anyone who defied the directive would be fined ₦10,000.
Some traders, however, expressed little interest in the election, saying they were not motivated to participate. Motorcyclists were also seen moving freely around the market area, as business and movement continued in parts of the town despite the poll.
According to the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), Aguata Local Government Area has 150,575 collected Permanent Voter Cards (PVCs). Statewide, 2,769,137 out of 2,802,790 registered voters—representing 98.8 per cent—collected their PVCs and are expected to vote across 5,718 polling units in 21 local government areas.
INEC officials reportedly arrived early at several local government areas, including Amawbia and Ekwulobia, with no major incidents recorded so far.
Meanwhile, the Executive Director of Yiaga Africa, Samson Itodo, has attributed voter apathy in the state to the failure of political parties to effectively mobilize voters.
“If voters are not turning out, political parties should take responsibility,” Itodo said. “Many people feel disconnected because they lack trust in the candidates. Parties need to communicate better and present clear, inspiring development plans.”
Deployment of election materials began early in Awka South Local Government Area. At St. Matthew Catholic Church, officials were seen heading to various polling stations, while ad hoc staff arrived at the Community Primary School, Amawbia (Wards 01 and 02), by 7:07 a.m.
By 8:30 a.m., voting had commenced in several parts of the state, including Fegge Community Primary School in Onitsha, where residents turned out peacefully.
Civil society representatives described the atmosphere as calm, assuring voters of adequate security across the state.
Observers have also urged INEC Chairman, Professor Joash Amupitan, to ensure a credible process, stressing that “no excuses for failure will be accepted.”
The governorship election is taking place across three senatorial districts, with sixteen candidates in the race.
Commissioner of Police for the election, Abayomi Shogunle, assured residents of a peaceful process, confirming that threats in high-risk areas such as Ihiala have been neutralized.
