Voters in the Kubwa area of the Federal Capital Territory, Abuja, expressed their hopes for a new Nigeria during the ongoing presidential and National Assembly elections on Saturday. Many voters arrived as early as 6:30 am to verify their names on the Independent National Electoral Commission registration lists. They demonstrated a commitment to the electoral process, vowing to sacrifice their time and daily activities to ensure a peaceful election and a favorable outcome. Observers noted the presence of security personnel at the polling units, tasked with maintaining order and ensuring the smooth conduct of the election.
This year’s elections mark 24 years of uninterrupted democracy in Nigeria. The outcome will determine the next president for the country and will also affect the fate of 1,101 candidates vying for 109 senatorial seats and 3,122 candidates competing for House of Representatives positions, totaling 4,223 candidates contesting for 469 legislative seats. Some voters in Kubwa urged their fellow citizens to fulfill their civic responsibilities and help usher in a new phase for the country.
Dupe Oshundele, the first voter at the Arab Road Water Board Junction polling unit, cast her vote at 9:06 am and expressed optimism about the election’s outcome. She reflected on the challenges faced over the past eight years, stating, “Everything is tiring; there’s no job, no security, no water, and people are living in fear. I hope for a better Nigeria and pray that everything works out after this election.” Her husband, Olutayo Oshundele, who was the second voter at the unit, echoed her sentiments, emphasizing the importance of this election for their future and the future of their children. “This is the time everyone has been waiting for; we are tired of the situation in the country. I’m encouraged by the turnout today and hope for a better and new Nigeria,” he said.
Matthew Adio, a 69-year-old voter, also came out to fulfill his civic duty and encouraged others to conduct themselves peacefully. He stated, “It is my civic responsibility to vote, and I hope for a new Nigeria. As you can see, many people are here to vote as well.” At the Liberty Junction by the Guinness Depot Polling Unit, Pastor Jude Odozi expressed his determination to wait in the scorching sun until he could cast his vote. “This is a sacrifice we have to pay for a new Nigeria. I am optimistic, and even if the INEC staff say their ink is exhausted, I will get a new one for them. We have to vote for what we want in the country. This is our country, and we can’t be tired today,” he remarked.
Reverend Sister Sylvia Anyanwu also called for a peaceful election, stating, “It’s a day we have been waiting for, and every eligible Nigerian must vote. We hope for a new Nigeria.”
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