Residents of Benin City, Edo, are concerned about the heavy security presence ahead of the upcoming governorship election. Many fear this may deter voters from participating. Key figures in the community expressed doubts about the effectiveness of this approach and called for systemic changes instead.
Residents of Benin City, Edo State, have voiced significant concerns regarding the substantial presence of security personnel in anticipation of the upcoming governorship election on Saturday. A recent survey conducted by the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) revealed a pervasive sense of unease among locals, who fear that this overwhelming display of force may deter voters from participating in the electoral process. Fidelis Osatohamwen, a cab driver, articulated this sentiment, stating, “the heavy security presence would rather cause more harm than good as several people might not come out to vote due to fear.” He criticized the apparent prioritization of election security over addressing ongoing security challenges in the country, implying that the resources dedicated to this election could have been utilized more effectively to enhance overall public safety. Another resident, Lucky Igbinoba, echoed the alarm, remarking, “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.” Igbinoba expressed his personal intentions to avoid the polling venues until after the election. Doris Ebhodaghe voiced skepticism about the impact of the security presence, contending that systemic change was necessary to improve the electoral process in Nigeria. Additionally, Amos Obadoni, another cab driver, noted that the heavy security might dissuade participation, effectively dampening public morale. Reports indicate that a total of 41,464 security personnel, including 35,000 police officers and 6,464 from the Nigerian Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), have been deployed for this election. This deployment includes two Deputy Inspectors-General of Police, four Assistant Inspectors-General of Police, and ten Commissioners of Police.
The heavy security presence in Benin City is largely attributed to the forthcoming governorship election in Edo State, scheduled for Saturday. The strategic deployment of security personnel aims to ensure a peaceful electoral process, yet it has raised concerns among residents about its potential to create an atmosphere of fear and voter apathy. With significant manpower mobilized, the implications of such actions on public participation in the democratic process remain a focal point of discussion among citizens.
The apprehension among Benin City residents regarding the substantial deployment of security personnel highlights the delicate balance between ensuring safety and encouraging electoral participation. While authorities aim to protect voters, this strategy may inadvertently suppress turnout due to fears of intimidation. As expressed by local residents, achieving meaningful change in the electoral system will require more than just a show of security; it calls for a reevaluation of underlying issues that discourage civic engagement.
Original Source: www.pulse.ng
