Low turnout, late arrival of materials mar Delta LG election

The local government election in Delta State on Saturday was marred by low turnout of voters in the various polling units and wards.

Our correspondent, while monitoring the election in Asaba, the state capital, and its environs, observed that there was low turnout in Asaba, Okpanam, Ibusa and other communities.

PUNCH Online observed that there was a heavy presence of security personnel at various polling units and wards visited even as vehicular movement was restricted.

At Uzoigwe RAC centre (DISEC ward 11 and 20), it was observed that voting materials arrived at about 10.30 am for onward distribution to polling units.

At Ward 13 Units 3, 30 and others in Okpanam, Oshimili North Local Government Area, materials arrived at exactly 11 am while voting commenced immediately with a low turn out of voters.

A Peoples Democratic Party agent at Ward 13, Unit 30 who did want his name mentioned attributed the low turnout to the experience of the 2023 general election.

“The last general election has discouraged the people to come out and cast their vote, that’s why we are recording low numbers,” he said.

Also speaking at Asagba Primary School Ward 18 Unit 2, the IPAC Chairman, Delta State and Election Observer, Mr Henry Eze, commended the presence of security agencies at the polling units.

He said, “The whole process was very peaceful, there is no shooting, snatching box or one thing or the other.

“I also want to thank the security agencies, they were fully on the ground at the wards and units level. CP promised us and they lived up to our expectations.

“Low turnout is normal in every election, and don’t forget that there was rain early in the morning. So, it is impressive in all.”