The distribution of election materials by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has commenced in Edo State ahead of the governorship election, News About Nigeria reports.
The distribution began on Thursday at the premises of the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) on Akpakpava junction located at the Ring Road, Benin.
The sensitive materials are expected to be distributed to the 18 local government areas of the state in preparation for the election scheduled to take place on Saturday.
The State Resident Electoral Commissioner, Onuoha Anugbum, supervised the distribution of the materials, stating that vehicles have been hired to convey the materials to their respective locations.
The development, however, created gridlock in the area as traffic was only opened to one lane on the busy road, and the area was also closed to commercial activities.
“We are here; we have commenced the distribution of sensitive materials to the local government area,” the resident commissioner stated.
Preparations have begun in full swing ahead of the election, as parties, INEC, and other stakeholders are putting the final touches to their plans and activities in readiness to vote on Saturday.
The Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) has also taken steps to beef up security in the state ahead of the election.
The Commandant General of NSCDC, Dr. Ahmed Abubakar Audi, revealed on Wednesday that the Defence Corps has deployed 6,433 officers and men ahead of the election, adding that over 300 operatives each from Ondo, Delta, Kogi, Osun, Imo, and Enugu Commands will be deployed in addition to the 3,626 officers of the Edo State Police Command already on the ground for the election.
