Low turnout marks Enugu local government election as voters cite apathy

The Enugu State local government election recorded low voter turnout on Saturday, with residents citing inadequate awareness and distrust of previous electoral processes as reasons for staying away. The election was conducted by the Enugu State Independent Electoral Commission across the state’s 17 local government areas. The News Agency of Nigeria reported that only a small number of voters were seen at some polling units in Trans-Ekulu and parts of New Haven in Enugu metropolis.

Electoral materials arrived late at polling units in Achara Layout and Awkunanaw. At Igbariam Primary School, security personnel and a few voters waited for the materials, while some youths played football. The limited participation came despite campaigns by political parties and appeals from ENSIEC and the state government for eligible residents to vote.

Results were still being collated across the state’s 260 electoral wards and were expected later on Saturday. Raphael Nnamani, a resident, told NAN he deliberately stayed away because he believed his vote would not count. He said he thought the results had already been decided, making participation a waste of time.

Margaret Ozioko said she was unaware the election was taking place. She also expressed doubt that votes in Nigerian elections were counted effectively. Civil servant Peter Eze linked the turnout to inadequate publicity, previous election experiences and uncertainty about the effect of local government elections on residents.

He said he believed the ruling party would win all the positions. Another resident, Fabian Ugwu, described the exercise as an affirmation of selected candidates. Residents nevertheless urged political leaders and electoral authorities to improve public engagement and encourage greater participation in future local government elections.