Persistent rainfall, which began in the early hours of Saturday, has caused significant delays in the arrival and distribution of electoral materials across parts of Edo Central Senatorial District. The region, consisting of five LGAs—Esan South-East, Igueben, Esan North-East, Esan West, and Esan Central—is expected to be a hotly contested battleground, with both PDP and APC candidates hailing from the area.

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By 7:50 a.m., most polling units visited had yet to receive election materials or officials. Many residents were still indoors, sheltering from the downpour. At polling stations near the Ogboji area in Irrua and Alli Square in Ekpoma, only a few voters were seen waiting, anxiously anticipating the arrival of Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) officials. The lack of election materials and officials made it seem as though the election hadn’t yet begun.

Some ad-hoc officials expressed dissatisfaction, citing that they hadn’t been paid, while others confirmed they had received payment. Despite the delays, security personnel strictly enforced the movement restriction order, allowing only voters with valid cards to make their way to the polling units.