Multiple bomb explosions were heard in the capital of Borno State, Maiduguri just hours before the commencement of the presidential and National Assembly elections. The source of the blasts was not immediately clear, but Boko Haram insurgents have repeatedly targeted Maiduguri.
In another northeastern town, Geidam, Reuters news agency reports attacks from Islamist militants have forced families to leave their homes. One resident, speaking to Reuters by telephone, said: “We have fled, along with our wives and children and hundreds of others.” He said, “We are right now running and hiding in the bushes.”
Nigeria’s president says polling stations will be safe Saturday when the country holds national elections after a one-week delay.
In a nationally televised address Friday, President Muhammadu Buhari said security has been mobilized across the country for the polls and pledged people will be able to vote without intimidation or fear.
Political tensions are running high as Nigerians prepare to elect a new president and parliament. During the campaign, Buhari’s All Progressives Congress and the main opposition Peoples Democratic Party accused each other of attempting to fix the outcome.
Earlier this week, Buhari urged the military to be “ruthless” with anyone who tries to interfere in the voting process.
The remark drew sharp criticism from his main challenger, Atiku Abubakar, who said the military has “no role to play” in the elections.
The elections were initially planned for last Saturday, but the electoral commission, citing logistical issues, abruptly postponed them five hours before polling stations were set to open.
The commission said Friday it is ready to deliver free and fair elections.
Rotimi Oyekanmi, chief press secretary to commission chairman Mahmood Yakubu, said officials have resolved most of the problems that led to postponement of the February 16 vote.
Meanwhile, President Muhammadu Buhari was among the first to cast the ballot in his hometown of Daura when the polls opened on Saturday. He was accompanied by his wife Aisha.
The presidential candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Alhaji Atiku Abubakar, lauded the turnout of voters in the election.
Abubakar, who spoke with newsmen after casting his vote at Ajiya 02 polling unit of Gwadabawa Ward, Yola North Local Government Area, said he was highly impressed by the turnout.
“I am impressed with the turnout of the people and I hope that INEC officials will be able to cope with the crowd,” he said.