By Muhammad Mamman
The by-election in Okura constituency of Kogi East has been overshadowed by widespread voter apathy and fear of violence.
The poll was conducted to fill the vacant seat left by former Deputy Speaker of the House of Assembly, Enema Paul, who died in December 2024.
Despite early arrival of electoral officials, residents in Okura Ward II and surrounding areas largely ignored the exercise, going about their daily activities instead.
Resident Electoral Commissioner (REC), Dr Oliver Agundu, attributed the low turnout to poor mobilisation by politicians and the activities of political thugs.
Agundu said some hoodlums waylaid officials and delayed their movement to polling units, discouraging voters from participating.
“This turnout is far below expectations,” he told reporters in Anyigba. “People seem more concerned with personal activities than with choosing their leaders.”
He added that politicians had failed to keep promises and properly sensitise their supporters ahead of the poll.
The REC, however, praised electoral staff and security agencies for their resilience and professionalism in ensuring the process was not derailed.
State Police Commissioner, Miller Dantawaye, confirmed that no arrests were made but warned troublemakers to stay away from polling units.
Meanwhile, a video circulating on social media alleged that electoral materials were diverted in Anyigba, raising concerns of possible rigging by the ruling party.
