Imo: Candidates, others worry over voter apathy, late arrival of INEC officials

Candidates for Imo State House of Assembly elections and party leaders have expressed worry over the level of voter apathy and late arrival of officials of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) for the scheduled poll in the state.

At Ihiagwa in Owerri council area of the state, Precious Opara and Ekene Umunaekwe, candidates of Labour Party and All Progressive Grand Alliance (APGA) said the situation may mar credible exercise in their areas.

Also, Engr. Emeka Udokporo, Chairman Ihiagwa Management Committee, Dr. Obinna George-Smart Unegbu among others urged INEC to uphold their assurance to the electorate and Nigerians at large.

They insisted that despite the fallouts of the 25 February presidential and national assembly elections, the people were ready to vote for their preferred candidates and ensure that their votes counted.

Meanwhile, as at 11:15, some of the polling units visited by The Guardian in Owerri, including units 001, 002, 008, 009 and 020 in Ihiagwa Community, INEC officials were yet to arrive and elections commenced.