By Giwa SHILE
Some political party leaders in Badagry on Saturday decried low turn out of voters as counting of votes began in the area.
TBI Africa said the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports the governorship and house of assembly elections which started at 8am ended around 3 p.m., after which counting of votes began in 11 wards in Badagry Local Government Area.
Mr Babatunde Hunpe, House of Representatives member-elect for Badagry, said the turnout of voters was discouraging compared to election that took place on Feb. 23.
“The voter turnout was not as impressive as that of Feb. 23, but notwithstanding everything went peacefully.
“The operations of INEC staff was a little bit faster today compared to the presidential election on Feb.23.
“When one looks at the exercise, you’ll discover that today, voters came to the units and they cast their votes on time.
“Maybe due to the fastness on the INEC staff and on the side of the voters too,” he said.
Hon Ibrahim Layode, member, Lagos State House Assembly, who was re-contesting for fourth time in Badagry Constituency, commended the INEC staff and security agents for the peaceful conduct of the election.
According to Layode, the election is peaceful, though few people turn out for the election.
He said that party members were going from house to house to ensure voters came out to exercise their franchise.
Also speaking, the Chairman, Community Development Committee (CDC) Badagry, Mr Ebenezer Kuponu, said the turnout of voters was not as poor as the people think.
“People might think the turnout was low but we should also commend the INEC staff for their effectiveness this time around.
“Where there were errors last time they have rectified them and their work was faster than the other time.
“When you look at the ballot boxes, one will realize that people have cast their votes and left,” he said.
Kuponu urged contestants to accept the results of the elections in good faith.
Meanwhile, counting of vote was underway in different parts of the coastal town.
