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Despite heavy rain and mobility challenges, persons with disabilities and elderly citizens braved the odds to exercise their civic rights. They shared their experiences with PETER DADA, IKENNA OBIANERI and ESE SAMUEL while casting their votes in the 2024 Edo governorship election

Mary Nwokeye, 80

“I arrived here around 6 a.m. and waited until about 9 a.m. when voting began. After six people, it was my turn. The voting process went smoothly. There was no violence, and the turnout was better than last time. This year’s election was better organised than the one held four years ago.”

Samuel Ayodele Osiokede, 68

“I voted because I wanted to exercise my civic responsibility. The turnout was disappointing compared to previous elections. This turnout is not good; it’s not like the last time I voted. I came out early, around 7 a.m., and waited until after 9 a.m. to cast my vote.”

Ugokwe Daniel, 70

“It was frustrating. I could not find my name at any of the polling units I visited, which left me unable to vote. I later went to the place where I voted last time, but was directed to Idia College. There too, I couldn’t find my name. I returned to Emokpae Model Primary School, and still couldn’t find my name on the list.”

Alhaji Aliu, 80

“I was frustrated by the delay caused by a malfunctioning BVAS. I waited for over four hours without voting. This is not good enough. But no matter what, I will still vote as soon as the machine works.”

Wilson Bello, 75

“The voting process was simple and very easy. I appealed to the people to be orderly and patiently wait to protect their votes and wait for the outcome of the election.”

Ruth Izilein, 85

“I was able to cast my vote. The election was peaceful and the process, easy.”

Ogbebor Ken – PWD

“I am satisfied with the voting process, despite initial difficulties in finding my polling unit. I went to vote for my children’s future. Initially, I thought my voting unit was at Open Space, Behind MTN Mast, By Alaka Junction, Ward 1, Unit 35. But after realising it wasn’t, I went in search of the correct one on my motorised wheelchair.”

Barth Okondo – PWD

“It was easy to vote because my polling unit was close to my house. The INEC officials were very helpful. The ballot box was on an elevated platform, but when I arrived, they lowered it for me. Voter turnout was low, but there was no violence as all the stakeholders conducted themselves responsibly. I voted because I am an adult, a Nigerian, and a registered voter.”