Residents of Benin City, Edo State, are uneasy about the heavy security presence ahead of the governorship election, fearing it may deter voter turnout. Observations indicate that many locals feel intimidated by the deployment of over 41,000 security personnel, which includes a significant number of police officers. Community voices express the need for systemic changes beyond mere security measures.
Residents of Benin City, Edo State, are expressing significant concerns regarding the substantial presence of security personnel in the area as the governorship election approaches. According to observations by the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN), a multitude of residents have voiced unease about the heavy security deployment, which they fear may deter voters from participating in the electoral process scheduled for Saturday. Fidelis Osatohamwen, a local cab driver, articulated the sentiments of many when he indicated that the intensive security presence could create an atmosphere of apprehension, potentially resulting in lower voter turnout. He commented, “Now, because it is an election, ordinary governorship election, see the number of security personnel sent to one state.” Another resident, Lucky Igbinoba, remarked on the unexpected scale of security staffing, stating, “Truth be told, there may be voter apathy tomorrow because, with the presence of this number of security personnel, nobody will want to risk coming out and being manhandled.” Despite the risks, he expressed a willingness to participate in the election but planned to conduct his affairs afterward. Doris Ebhodaghe, another local, asserted that the overwhelming security presence would not resolve fundamental issues within the electoral framework. She emphasized the necessity for systemic reform, suggesting that without such changes, the cycle of discontent would persist among the Nigerian populace. Amos Obadoni, also a cab driver, echoed concerns that the intense security atmosphere could further dampen public morale and participation. NAN reported that a total of 41,464 security personnel, including 35,000 police officers and 6,464 members of the Nigerian Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), have been assigned to ensure security during the election. Additional high-ranking officials, such as two Deputy Inspectors-General of Police, four Assistant Inspectors-General, and ten Commissioners of Police, have been deployed for this significant event.
The governance and electoral processes in Nigeria have often been accompanied by security concerns, particularly in volatile regions. The heavy presence of security forces during elections is intended to deter violence and ensure a peaceful voting environment. However, such measures can inadvertently create feelings of fear among the electorate, which can lead to voter apathy—a historical pattern observed in various elections across the country. As the Edo governorship election approaches, residents of Benin City are voicing their fears regarding the balance between necessary security and public comfort during the election.
In summary, the heightened security presence in Edo State ahead of the governorship election has raised concerns among residents about potential voter apathy due to fears of confrontation. While the deployment of over 41,000 security personnel aims to safeguard the electoral process, residents hope for deeper systemic changes that address their concerns and encourage civic participation.
Original Source: www.pulse.ng
