Nigerians finally vote in delayed general election
The election is reported to be a twohorse race between Muhammadu Buhari of the governing All Progressives Congress party and Atiku Abubakar of the main opposition Peoples Democratic Party
ABUJA: Nigerians turned out in huge numbers on Saturday to elect their president, a week after the polls were delayed by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC).
Citizens of the most populous African nation will also elect a total of 469 members of the National Assembly during the election.
More than 72 million Nigerians were expected to vote in the general elections in the country.
President Muhammadu Buhari on Saturday morning reaffirmed his confidence in winning the presidential election.
Buhari told newsmen shortly after voting at Kofar Baru, Sarkin Yara “A” ward in Daura, his home town, that he would win the election and congratulate himself.
The election is reported to be a two-horse race between Muhammadu Buhari of the governing All Progressives Congress party and Atiku Abubakar of the main opposition Peoples Democratic Party.
Seeking second term
The incumbent President Buhari is seeking a second term of office on the platform of the APC.
He came into power in 2015, becoming the first Nigerian opposition candidate to unseat an incumbent president.
In the capital Abuja, a large turnout of voters was seen as early as 7am local time.
In many parts of the city, electorates were seen awaiting the arrival of electoral officials and election materials.
Voting commenced amid tight security across the country at 8am local time, INEC said.
Large turnout of voters has also been reported in most parts of the country, despite last week’s delay of polls, according to domestic and foreign observers.
“I am very impressed with the large turnout of voters. Despite the delay of the polls by one week, it is highly impressive to see this crowd of voters. Let us hope this will end well, as it has started well,” a political party’s agent identified as Ahmadu said.
Shops were under lock and key; private and government offices remained shut and roads, including those leading to the government secretariat, were deserted; security patrol vehicles were seen driving on major roads in Abuja to ensure a smooth electoral process.
In some polling units, local traders selling food items were seen making brisk business.
“After trekking a long distance to this polling unit to exercise my civic responsibility, I think it is good enough to buy some food and drinks here,” Vincent Arinze, a voter, said. “I’ve just cast my ballot and feel great,” he added.