Anambra Guber Poll: Traders Defy Restriction Order, Open Shops In Nkwo Igboukwu

Some traders in Nkwo Igboukwu in Nnewi, Aguata Local Government Area of Anambra State, opened their shops for businesses on Saturday despite the ongoing 2025 governorship election.

Reporters disclosed that market activities were initially in full swing at the Nkwo Ukwu Market before market leaders intervened.

“When we got here, people were selling and doing business. But a few minutes ago, market masters arrived and ordered everyone to close their shops and go home to vote. They warned that anyone found trading would be fined ₦10,000,” a reporter said.

Some traders expressed disinterest in the election, saying they were not motivated to participate.

Motorcyclists were also seen riding freely around the market area, as business and movements continued in parts of the town.

According to the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), Aguata LGA has 150,575 collected Permanent Voter Cards (PVCs). Across Anambra State, 2,769,137 of the 2,802,790 registered voters—representing 98.8 per cent—have collected their PVCs and are expected to cast their votes across 5,718 polling units in 21 local government areas in the election.

LEADERSHIP recalls that the Executive Director of Yiaga Africa, Samson Itodo, said political parties should be held responsible if voter apathy occurs in the election.

He said, “If there’s one aspect most political parties have failed, it’s voter mobilisation. If voters are not showing up, parties should take full responsibility. It’s either they’re not communicating well, not reaching the voters, or the voters don’t trust them.”

The election spans three senatorial districts with 16 candidates contesting, including Governor Chukwuma Charles Soludo (APGA), Nicholas Ukachukwu (APC), Paul Chukwuma (YPP), George Moghalu (LP), and Jude Ezenwafor (PDP).

The Commissioner of Police for the election, Abayomi Shogunle, has assured residents of a peaceful exercise across all flashpoints, including Ihiala, confirming that threats in high-risk areas have been neutralised.