The Independent National Electoral Commission has taken delivery of sensitive material ahead of the September 28 governorship election.
The Edo State Resident Electoral Commissioner, Mr. Sam Olumekun, disclosed this to newsmen in Benin, on Monday.
Our correspondent gathered that the sensitive materials were handed over to the commission amid tight security by some top officials of the police, Department of State Services and the Nigerian Army.
Olumekun said the delivery of sensitive materials from the Central Bank of Nigeria had shown the readiness of the commission to conduct the governorship election.
He said the commission would commence distribution later in the day.
He assured that the commission would ensure a transparent election on Wednesday.
Meanwhile, the Nigerian Army has beefed up security around the state.
A detachment of soldiers mounted a roadblock about 20 meters from the Benin-Ore tollgate, searching vehicles coming into the capital city.
There were also police vehicles patrolling the streets of Benin.
Our correspondent also observed several police checkpoints along the Benin-Owo road.
Findings from the Oba Market in Benin revealed that residents had started stocking their homes with food due to the tension generated between the two leading parties – the All Progressives Congress and the Peoples Democratic Party.
There was traffic jam along the Ring Road due to shopping by residents.
A trader, who simply identified himself as Mr. Sebastian, said there was a boost in sales on Monday.
“There were sales today. A lot of my customers even called me to reserve rice and beans for them today. I’m sure it is because of the tension about this election.
“We don’t pray for crisis that may lead to a curfew, but people are apprehensive.”
PUNCH
