SECURITY TIGHTENS IN AKWA AS RESIDENTS PREPARE FOR ELECTION

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Awka metropolis and its environs are witnessing tight security and last-minute preparations ahead of the Anambra governorship election slated for November 8.

The News Agency of Nigeria correspondent who monitored activities across the state reports that an unusual calmness filled the environment.

NAN also reports that “there was a visible security presence around the Independent National Electoral Commission headquarters in Awka and its surroundings, with vehicular movements being diverted to local routes.”

Along the Nibo–Nise axis in Awka South Local Government Area of the state, security operatives were stationed at flashpoints in the communities, allowing unhindered pedestrian and vehicular movements

Mrs. Ifeoma Egbo, a trader at Eke Awka Market, told NAN that there were tensions and uncertainty in the atmosphere due to the heavy security presence across the state.

Egbo said that the sounds of air raids heightened the tension, adding that “there are security men in uniforms in almost all the areas.”

She noted that the presence of security personnel and the air raids might scare some voters away, especially the elderly.

Mrs. Grace Anagor, another trader, said that customers were trooping in great numbers to make their weekend purchases, unlike what usually happens on non-election weekends.

Anagor, however, welcomed the presence of security agents, saying it reassured residents of the government’s preparedness for the election.

She appealed to the security personnel to “operate professionally and with a human face.”

NAN reports that the security outfit had earlier announced the deployment of 60,000 police and military personnel to secure 5,720 polling units across the state.

INEC also declared that it recorded a 98.8 per cent Permanent Voter Card (PVC) collection rate ahead of the election.

(NAN)