With less than 24hrs to one of the most decisive Presidential elections in Nigeria’s history, some electorates spoke to WITHIN NIGERIA about their expectations from the February 25th polls. This election will have 18 candidates from different political parties jostle for the top seat in the country.
With 87,209,007 people ready to participate in this election, the electoral umpire, Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has assured Nigerians and the International community about a smooth electioneering process.
INEC Chairman, Prof. Mahmood Yakubu, noted that having understood the benefits of credible elections and the positive effects on our sub-region, the electoral body will never let Nigeria and the international community down.
As WITHIN NIGERIA observes the pre-election activities, citizens have had to call for a violent-free, transparent, and credible election.
John Question who spoke to WITHIN NIGERIA said he wants the election to be free, fair, and peaceful.
“The election should be a peaceful one, no riot or violence should occur during the election to get good results. No election rigging and no citizen of Nigeria with a voters card should show a lackadaisical attitude towards the election exercise” he said.
Agbelusi Samuel expects a credible and tough election come February 25th.
“Well, with the look of things and to be realistic for now. All three major candidates pose a strong challenge which is the beauty of democracy. But then, I expect a credible and tough election with some serious political events to decide the fate of voters at the last minute.” he said.
” I just hope that there will be massive participation” Ajibade Adewale said while speaking to WITHIN NIGERIA.
He noted that he does not expect much difference at the poll due to the challenge of naira scarcity which can make people trade their votes.
Citizens’ participation in the election is important, Akala Pelumi told WITHIN NIGERIA. She said she expects a large number of politically interested individuals at the Saturday poll.
Egwu Linus said he expects a violence-free poll with the election modalities implemented.
“I expect that with the modalities put in place by INEC, the election will be free of Violence, and vote buying, in this case, the will of the majority should elect candidates for the respective positions.” he said.
Abdulsemiu Monsuroh expressed fear over the possible cases of violence in the election.
“I’m afraid of the violence that would most likely break out, the poor or greedy people who will sell their votes, and most importantly, the result of the election.” she said.