Traders at the New Benin Market on Friday defied the police’s restriction of movement order by engaging in brisk business on the day of the Edo governorship election.
As early as 7 a.m., traders had set up their makeshift stalls, selling goods along the main thoroughfare despite official warnings to maintain order for the electoral process.
Despite a visible police presence aimed at enforcing the movement restrictions, the market in Benin remained lively, with residents taking advantage of the opportunity for last-minute purchases.
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Mrs. Grace Omonuwa, a vegetable vendor, shared her perspective with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN), stating, “Elections may be important, but so is our livelihood. I have to be here to earn for my daily feeds.”
Similarly, Mrs. Ngozi Eze, another shopper, explained her reason for being at the market: “I need to buy some food before I go vote,” she said softly while maneuvering through the busy market.
The police had previously announced during a Friday news briefing that the restriction of movement would last from 6 a.m. to 6 p.m. on election day, but the traders’ determination to continue their daily business appeared to overshadow the official directive.
NAN
