Speaking to journalists in his hometown of Oro, Kwara State, the minister said that many voters needed to be made aware of the change of polling unit venues and, therefore, did not show up to vote. He added that the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) needed more to sensitise voters to the changes.
The minister, also the leader of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Kwara State, expressed confidence in the party's victory in the election, despite the low turnout. He urged party supporters to remain calm and patient, assuring them their votes would count.
Meanwhile, reports from various parts of the country indicate that the election has been marred by violence and irregularities. In some areas, ballot boxes were snatched, and election officials were attacked. In other areas, voters complained of not finding their names on the voter register.
The INEC has assured the public that it is doing everything possible to address the challenges and ensure a free, fair, and credible election. The commission has also urged voters to remain calm and patient, assuring them their votes would count.
The low turnout of voters in some areas has raised concerns about the election's credibility. Some observers have attributed the low turnout to voter apathy and disenchantment with the political process.
The election is being closely watched by local and international observers, who have called on all stakeholders to ensure a peaceful and transparent process. The outcome of the election is expected to have far-reaching implications for the country's political landscape.
The ruling APC seeks to retain its grip on power in many states, while the opposition parties hope to make gains. The election is seen as a litmus test for the APC's popularity, especially in the face of mounting public discontent over the economy and insecurity.
As the election continues, it is hoped that all stakeholders will act responsibly and ensure that the will of the people prevails. The INEC must ensure that the process is free, fair, and credible, while the security agencies must maintain law and order and protect lives and property.
The media, civil society organisations, and other stakeholders are crucial in ensuring the election is transparent and credible. They must monitor the process closely and report any irregularities or malpractices.