Voter Apathy, Late Arrival of Materials Mar Akwa Ibom LG Polls
The local government elections in Akwa Ibom State were hindered by voter apathy and delays in the arrival of election materials. Polls were open across the state’s three senatorial districts to elect local government chairmen and councilors.
As of 10:30 a.m., most polling units had not received election materials from the Akwa Ibom State Independent Electoral Commission (AKISIEC). At Unit 7, Ward 12 in Itu Local Government Area, only a handful of voters waited for the materials to arrive.
A similar situation was observed at Unit 2, Ward 11 in Itu Local Government and Unit 007, Ward 14 in Uyo Local Government areas. A People’s Democratic Party agent, Mrs. Rita Archibong, expressed frustration at Unit 001, Ward 14 in Uyo, stating that accreditation had not begun due to the delayed materials.
AKISIEC had yet to issue an official statement on the matter. The voter apathy and logistical issues raised concerns about the election’s smooth conduct.
The elections are crucial for the state’s governance, with 31 local government areas up for grabs. The outcome will determine the leadership of the councils and potentially impact state-level politics
