Kwara State conducted elections for its 16 local government areas on Saturday, marking the first local government polls in seven years.
The last election took place in November 2017.
After casting his vote at Idigba polling unit 004 in Adewole Ward, Ilorin West, Governor Abdulrahman Abdulrazaq praised the high turnout, stating that democracy is firmly established in the state.
“The turnout is impressive. We’re eager to see the results from across the state. Clearly, democracy is here to stay,” he remarked.
The governor also highlighted the peaceful nature of the election and commended security agencies for their efforts, urging them to continue maintaining order.
Hon. Majeed Bolakale Podo, the All Progressives Congress (APC) candidate for Ilorin South, echoed the governor’s sentiments, describing the process as smooth and orderly. “Everything is going well.
There have been no complaints from any wards in Ilorin South; it has been peaceful so far,” he said. Podo added that if elected, he aims to emulate the governor’s effective leadership.
Monitoring the election in Ilorin, Mohammed Baba-Okanla, chairman of the Kwara State Independent Electoral Commission (KWASIEC), explained that delays in starting the election were due to logistical issues, including vehicle breakdowns.
“Some polling units experienced late arrivals of materials, but we have resolved those issues,” he noted.
However, reports from Offa local government indicated that, while the polls began peacefully, allegations of electoral malpractice emerged.
Some voters claimed there were insufficient materials compared to the number of registered voters, leading to calls from community leaders to halt the election to prevent unrest.
Senator Mallam Saliu Mustapha, representing Kwara Central, expressed appreciation for the peaceful election environment after voting at Gambari Ward I in Ilorin East.
“From my house to the polling station, I’ve seen a smooth election process. I hope the APC emerges victorious so we can continue the good work led by Governor Abdulrahman Abdulrazaq,” he said.
