Heavy security presence was observed across Benin-City on election day, as soldiers, stationed at various points, blocked all major roads early in the morning. Voters were forced to trek long distances to reach their polling stations.
At Sakponba Road, our correspondent noted that security personnel began cordoning off the main road with tyres as early as 4 a.m.
Early commuters heading to polling stations were stopped, thoroughly searched, and allowed to proceed. However, by 6 a.m., the roads were completely shut down, leaving those familiar with alternative routes to divert through side streets to reach their destinations.
Individuals providing essential services were permitted to pass after undergoing strict scrutiny and searches.