Despite the deployment of thousands of security personnel for the local government elections in Ibadan, residents have defied movement restrictions as security agents were conspicuously absent from the streets, leaving major areas of the city unmonitored.
The Commissioner of Police in Oyo State had announced the deployment of 12,000 security personnel, including 8,000 policemen and 2,125 from other agencies, for the elections.
However, on the morning of the elections, no security agents were sighted from General Gas to Dugbe and other major areas within the metropolis.
Reports from the ground indicate that people and vehicles were moving freely within the city despite the supposed restriction order on vehicular movement from 6 a.m. to 6 p.m. Private cars, commercial drivers, and motorcycle riders were observed transporting passengers without hindrance.
Additionally, some artisans and traders continued their businesses as usual, disregarding the ongoing electoral process. Shops remained open, and artisans such as vulcanizers and plumbers operated without interference.
The elections also faced logistical challenges, with late arrival of electoral officials and materials at several polling stations. As of the early morning hours, some polling units in Ibadan North-West and Ibadan South-West Local Government Areas had not received election materials, causing delays in the voting process.
In Ward 10 of Ibadan South-West council area, specific polling units lacked both electoral officials and voting materials, further hindering the electoral process.
