Despite the Rivers State government’s 12-hour no-movement order for the local government elections on Saturday, some traders and shop owners in the Obio/Akpor area continued to operate, citing economic pressures and survival concerns.
The state government had imposed the restriction to ensure smooth elections for chairmanship and councillorship positions across all 23 Local Government Areas (LGAs). However, the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) observed that many shops and roadside stalls remained open, with traders serving customers throughout the day.
Mr. Chinedu Okoro, a provision store owner in Woji Ward 6, admitted he was aware of the directive but felt he had no choice but to open. “I have three children and a sick mother to care for. If I don’t sell today, we won’t eat. The government should understand that not everyone can afford to stay home without income,” he said.
Similarly, Mrs. Comfort Brown, a food stall operator, explained she resumed business early to prevent her perishable goods from spoiling. “I bought vegetables and meat yesterday before the restriction was announced. If I don’t cook and sell them, they will go to waste. I can’t afford that loss,” she said.
Miss Blessing, a fruit seller, also spoke about her decision to work despite the movement ban. “Rather than stay at home without electricity, I’d rather open for business. People still move around for various reasons, and I’m just here to earn a little something,” she said.
Although the movement restriction was meant to ensure election security, the residents’ actions reflect the ongoing financial pressures many face in the region.
