Edo Governorship Election: Armored Tanks, Roadblocks in Benin as Voting Begins

The Edo governorship election, which is scheduled to begin at 8:00 a.m., has seen heightened security to ensure law and order.

Benin City, Nigeria – As the Edo State governorship election kicks off today, security personnel have mounted roadblocks in various parts of Benin City, with operations starting as early as 6:00 a.m.

The Edo governorship election, which is scheduled to begin at 8:00 a.m., has seen heightened security to ensure law and order.

According to the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN), security operatives have been stopping and searching vehicles at these roadblocks while questioning occupants to enhance security during the electoral process.

Some commercial bus drivers, attempting to evade the security checks, managed to bypass the roadblocks in a bid to continue their business operations. However, the popular Ring Road area saw a strong military presence, with checkpoints set up at key locations, including Sapele Road, Forestry Junction, and other critical points. An armored tank was stationed at the city center, underscoring the heightened security.

Other areas with a notable presence of security personnel include Okida Road, Ekehuan Road, and the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) office at Ikpoba Hill.

Roadblocks were also observed at Agbado Market and the Akpakpava and Sapele Road sections of the Ring Road.

As of the time of reporting, vehicular movement remained sparse, with only a few pedestrians—likely voters—seen making their way along the roads.