Despite the order by the Inspector General of Police (IGP) for all businesses to close down and movements restricted between the hours of the ongoing Edo State governorship election, traders at the new Benin market have defied the order by engaging in a brisk business on Saturday morning as the Edo governorship election kicks off.
At 7 a.m., traders have set their makeshift stalls, selling goods along the main thoroughfare despite official warnings to maintain order for the electoral process.
Despite a police presence along the roads to the market, which is aimed at enforcing the movement restrictions, the marketplace in Benin was bustling with activity as residents stopped for last-minute purchases.
Speaking with the News Agency of Nigeria, Mrs Grace Omonuwa said she was in the market to earn for her daily feeds.
Similarly, Mrs Ngozi Eze, said she was in the market to pick up some items before going to the poll.
“I need to buy some food before I go vote,” she softly said while navigating the busy market.
The police had, during a news briefing on Friday, said restriction of movement would last between 6 a.m. and 6 p.m. on the election day.
NAN.
