There is a heavy security presence in Edo State as voters head to the polls to choose their next governor.

Today, on September 21, 2024, security personnel, mainly the military and police, have taken control of the city as voters make their way to their polling units.

Numerous major roads and streets have been blocked by security forces. Agho and Joromi junctions, Ekenwa road in Benin City, have been sealed off by military personnel, causing traffic disruptions for motorists.

Additionally, Oba Market Road, Ebiwe, Forestry and Mission road junctions have been closed off by the Army and Police.

At Sonkpoba junction, Sapele, and Airport roads, Army personnel have set up roadblocks, as well as at the Asoro primary school at Sokponba. Armoured Personnel Carriers (APCs) belonging to the Army are stationed at Akakpava road by the Central Bank of Nigeria.

This election is being contested by 17 candidates with three top contenders: Senator Monday Okpebholo (All Progressives Congress), Asue Ighodalo (Peoples Democratic Party), and Olumide Akpata (Labour Party).

The candidates have expressed their readiness for the election as they vie to take over Osadebe House, the government house currently occupied by the incumbent, Governor Godwin Obaseki, who has served two terms and will vacate the office on November 11.