By Chinwe Onuigbo, Awka
Anambra State Governor, Professor Chukwuma Charles Soludo, on Saturday cast his vote at Polling Unit 002, Ofiyi Square, Isuofia Ward, in Aguata Local Government Area, amid cheers and applause from residents and voters.
Governor Soludo arrived at the polling centre accompanied by his wife, Dr. Nonye Soludo, and their children. He was warmly received by enthusiastic constituents before he proceeded to cast his ballot.
Speaking to journalists after voting, Governor Soludo described the electoral process as “seamless, orderly, and peaceful,” noting that voter turnout was impressive and that both voters and election officials conducted themselves responsibly.
“From what I have seen here, and from the calls I’ve received since morning, everything appears to be going smoothly,” he said.
However, the governor expressed concern over reports of alleged vote buying in Nnewi South Local Government Area.
Governor Soludo also mentioned reports of malfunctioning Bimodal Voter Accreditation Systems (BVAS) in Olumbanasa, Anambra West Local Government Area, but maintained that there was no cause for alarm.
“On the basis of one man, one vote, we are confident of achieving a landslide victory. There’s no doubt about it,” he added.
Despite some concerns, he expressed confidence that the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) would uphold the integrity of the electoral process.
“We trust INEC to ensure that the will of the people prevails,” Soludo said.
Saturday’s election marks another crucial test for Nigeria’s evolving democratic process, as observers continue to monitor how technology and enforcement mechanisms impact transparency and voter confidence in the country’s electoral system.