PHOTO: GBENGA AKINFENWA
Contrary to the Ogun State Independent Electoral Commission’s (OGSIEC) assurance of its readiness for today’s local government election, the late arrival of voting materials and personnel is hampering the smooth take-off of the election across the state.
As of 10:30 a.m., there was no presence of any electoral officer or election materials in any of the polling units in some parts of Abeokuta, the entire Sagamu area, Ikenne, and the Governor’s hometown, Iperu. But for the roadblocks mounted by the police, there was no indication that an election was taking place in the state.
While voters were seen in some of the polling units waiting for the OGSIEC officials, others, unable to withstand the scorching sun, were seen returning to their homes.
It was also observed that while many shops were open for commercial activities, others were going about their normal businesses, just as commercial and private vehicles were seen commuting.
However, it was alleged that while waiting for the electoral personnel, members of one of the parties were already thumbprinting in some of the councils. This claim could not be ascertained at the time of filing this report.