Shops Stay Open as Voters Shun Anambra Polls Amid Low Enthusiasm in Nnewi
The 2025 Anambra governorship election began on a subdued note in parts of Nnewi, as sections of the Nkwo Igboukwu Market in Aguata Local Government Area opened for business despite voting under way.
Traders in the bustling commercial hub were seen attending to customers early on Saturday before market authorities moved in to enforce closure. The market masters reportedly instructed shop owners to suspend trading and return home to participate in the election, warning that those who ignored the directive faced a fine of ₦10,000. 
However, many traders appeared unmoved, insisting they saw little reason to leave their stalls. Commercial motorcyclists and street vendors continued business as usual, with the usual hum of movement and trade filling parts of the town.
In Aguata, the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) confirmed that 150,575 residents had collected their Permanent Voter Cards (PVCs). Statewide, 2,769,137 voters—representing about 98.8 per cent of those registered—were eligible to cast their ballots across 5,718 polling units in all 21 local government areas.
INEC officials arrived early at polling stations in Awka South, including St Matthew Catholic Church and the Community Primary School in Amawbia, where ad hoc staff were in place before 7:10 a.m. Buses conveying election materials were seen departing for various wards, and voting began smoothly in several locations, such as Fegge Community Primary School in Onitsha.
Observers reported calm across most parts of the state, with security operatives maintaining visible presence. Civil society groups monitoring the process described the atmosphere as peaceful and orderly.
Election monitors also urged INEC Chairman, Professor Joash Amupitan, to ensure the process remained transparent, warning that no excuses for lapses would be tolerated.
Despite the relative calm, the overall mood among voters appeared tepid. Analysts pointed to a lack of trust in the political class as a key factor in the low turnout. Civic groups criticised political parties for failing to mobilise or inspire citizens, arguing that many voters had lost confidence in campaign promises that rarely translate into tangible development.
The election, which spans all three senatorial districts of Anambra, features sixteen candidates vying for the state’s top seat.
This Commissioner of Police in Anambra, Abayomi Shogunle assured residents of safety throughout the exercise, noting that potential flashpoints, especially in Ihiala, had been closely monitored and any threats effectively contained.
As voting continued, Nnewi’s half-open markets served as a stark reminder of the widening gap between political optimism and public apathy in a state once known for its fierce civic engagement.
