Edo Election: Traders in early morning transactions at new Benin market

“Elections may be important, but so is our livelihood.”

Traders at the new Benin market on Saturday defied the police restriction of movement order to engage in brisk business on the day of the Edo governorship election.

At 7 a.m., the traders had set their makeshift stalls, selling goods along the main thoroughfare despite official warnings to maintain order for the electoral process.

The marketplace in Benin was bustling with activity as residents stopped for last-minute purchases despite the police presence along the roads to the market, which is aimed at enforcing movement restrictions.

Speaking with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN), Grace Omonuwa said she was in the market to make money for her daily feeds.

“Elections may be important, but so is our livelihood,” said Mrs Omonuwa, a vegetable vendor.

Similarly, 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 said while navigating the busy market.

The police said during a news briefing on Friday that movement would be restricted in the state from 6 a.m. to 6 p.m. on election day.