Residents of communities currently occupied by gunmen in Anambra State have vowed not to return home to cast their votes on Saturday.

They said their decision followed the continued occupation of the surrounding bushes by hoodlums, contrary to government and security agencies’ claims that the areas had been cleared.

The affected communities include Lilu, Isseke, Orsumoghu, and parts of Ihiala, all in Ihiala Local Government Area of the state. Others are Ukpor in Nnewi South Local Government Area, and Owerre-Ezukala and Ogbunka in Orumba South Local Government Area.

Speaking with The Nation on Monday, a woman who sells tomatoes and onions at Eke-Awka Market said she had no plans to travel home for the election.

“I’m from Lilu, and I will be the last person to travel home in the name of voting for anyone,” she said.

“Where were they when my son was killed in February? Where were they when innocent people were being murdered daily by those who have taken over our bushes?

“My once-beautiful community, which used to be our pride, has been under the control of hoodlums for over two years now. Everyone is afraid to go there and rescue it. We can’t hold any ceremonies; the place looks like a ghost town.

“They should conduct their election and leave some of us alone to mourn our loved ones. No fewer than 50 people have been killed in my community, and many houses have been burnt. We’re not interested in their election,” the 56-year-old aggrieved woman said.

Another resident, a civil servant from Ukpor in Nnewi South Local Government Area, who pleaded anonymity, said she would remain indoors with her children on election day.

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The 51-year-old woman told The Nation that her elder sister and niece were killed in October 2024 while returning from their farm, and the area has remained deserted since then.

“The governor and the police keep telling us to go about our normal business, but they surround themselves with countless security personnel. Who’s deceiving whom?

“We know all eyes will be on Anambra that day, but those boys operating in the bushes are dangerous. Nobody understands their modus operandi. Everyone is afraid of them, and no one wants to lose their life,” the Level 12 officer said.

Meanwhile, despite a peace accord signed by candidates to discourage violence, anxiety remains high among residents across the state.

However, the police have assured that all flashpoints and vulnerable communities will be adequately secured, with helicopters deployed during the election.

Despite these assurances, many residents say they still fear for their safety.

The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has also pledged to ensure security in the troubled areas.

The Resident Electoral Commissioner (REC) in Anambra State, Dr. Queen Elizabeth Agwu, told The Nation that arrangements had been concluded with security operatives on how to manage the situation, declaring, “There’s no cause for alarm.” (The Nation)