In the market in Nigeria where the customers of the northern state of Kano bek are in food and essentials, the outcome of the election is uncertain to elect a new president and legislature, in a country where the vote has sometimes been followed by violence.
Cash and fuel shortages and the highest inflation rate in nearly two decades have left Nigerians frustrated with the government of President Muhammadu Buhari, who is off the ballot after serving a maximum of two presidential terms.
“We don’t know what the outcome of the election will be, so you see everyone trying to come and buy some stuff,” said potato seller Auwal Usman Ahmed as he sorted his wares at the city’s Yan Kaba Market. Kano, the capital of the state of the same name.
In past elections, violence has flared in Kano, a predominantly Muslim state, after the results were announced.
Businesses and traditional markets are closed on voting day in Nigeria and state security agencies have announced restrictions on vehicle movement from 12 am (2300 GMT on Friday) to 6 pm (1700 GMT) on Saturday, said to be a measure to ensure security.
Esther David, a government employee in Kano, said she has had enough, but believes prayers will prevent violence.
Widespread insecurity is a major concern for voters, even as the army and police have promised peaceful elections.
In southeastern Anambra state, where separatist and gang violence has killed dozens of people this year, nurse Norah Ejike said she was worried about the post-election violence.
Ejike, 22, was among the last-minute shoppers before the market closed in Anambra’s capital, Awka, but was unable to buy what he wanted. Although they have money in their bank accounts and bank cards, vendors in the market demand payment in cash, which is not enough after the central bank withdrew old naira bills from circulation.
“Your best chance is to buy now,” he said. “We just put it in God’s hands, even though we know there will be killing.”
Source: Reuters
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