The Local Government Elections in Abia State were marred by the absence of electoral materials and officials, causing delays and frustration for prospective voters across various local government areas.
Monitoring reports from the News Agency of Nigeria revealed that, contrary to the Abia State Independent Electoral Commission’s (ABSIEC) schedule for materials to arrive at polling units by 7 a.m., many units had yet to receive materials or officials by 11 a.m.
In Umuahia South, Osisioma, Aba North, and Aba South LGAs, polling units visited by NAN correspondents showed no signs of electoral materials or officials. Instead, ad hoc staff were seen idling at LGA headquarters, awaiting supplies.
Prospective voters, though sparse, waited at polling units hoping that materials would arrive, while others expressed disinterest, citing past disappointments in election transparency.
Mrs. Joy Eze, a hairdresser, shared her disappointment at the delay, noting her eagerness to vote in support of her preferred candidates.
In contrast, Mrs. Onyinyechi Ishmael, another resident, dismissed the process as futile, stating that her past experiences showed that votes often don’t count in elections.
In Aba, Collins Ogbonna, a Ward 3 resident, reported arriving at his polling unit by 8 a.m., only to find it deserted by election officials. He suggested that voter apathy and security concerns might be to blame for the low turnout in his area.
Despite these issues, Dr. Kelechukwu Okere, ABSIEC’s Commissioner for Voter Education and Enlightenment, refuted the reports, describing them as “pure falsehood.”
He asserted that the commission had made comprehensive arrangements to ensure the smooth distribution of materials and personnel.
In Osisioma LGA, Zenith Labour Party’s Deputy Chairmanship candidate, Mr. Aguwa, confirmed the arrival of election materials at the council headquarters but cited logistical complexities as a reason for the delay in distribution.
He stated that the LGA’s large number of polling units contributed to the slow start.
As the day unfolded, frustrations grew among Abia residents, with some hopeful for improvements in future elections and others deeply disillusioned by the apparent logistical failures.
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