Voting kicked off on Saturday at Igbo-Ukwu 1 Polling Unit in Aguata Local Government Area, Anambra State, for the Anambra South Senatorial District bye-election, but voter turnout remained low despite the early arrival of materials.
Accreditation and voting began on time at Ihua-Afor Ward III and Afaukwu College Ward II, but many polling units recorded thin crowds, with residents slow to show up.
The bye-election, covering seven local government areas, seeks to fill the seat left vacant after the death of Senator Ifeanyi Ubah in 2024.
Dominic Okafor, Member representing Aguata Federal Constituency, who voted at Igbo-Ukwu Polling Unit, acknowledged the low turnout but urged residents to exercise their civic duty.
âFirst and foremost, we pray for the repose of the soul of our former Senator, Ifeanyi Ubah. Voting has started, but we urge more people to come out. Almost a year without representation is too long, and every vote counts,â Okafor said.
Eighty-year-old voter, Madam Victoria Okeke, said she was pleased with the process, even though turnout was low.
âMaterials came early, around 7:30 am. I was accredited and have voted. It was good and smooth, but not many people have come out yet,â she said.
An INEC official, who requested anonymity, confirmed that all machines were working and the process was seamless. She noted that voters began arriving as early as 7:00 am, conducting themselves orderly while security personnel monitored the units.
Observers say the low turnout could affect the pace and energy of the election, emphasising the need for more residents to participate to ensure robust representation.
