A 96-year-old woman, Mrs Elizabeth Onike, broke down in tears on Saturday after she was prevented from voting at her polling unit in Anambra State.
Speaking to journalists at Umudimakasi, Agulu Ward 2, Polling Unit 008 in Aniocha Local Government Area, Mrs. Onike, visibly emotional, said she had been eager to participate in the governorship election but was denied the opportunity because she did not possess a permanent voter card (PVC).
“I wanted to vote today, but they said I cannot because I don’t have my voter’s card,” she lamented. “I came here hoping they would allow me, but they refused.”
Observers at the polling centre watched as the elderly woman, who insisted she had voted in previous elections, broke down in tears after officials explained that only accredited voters with PVCs would be allowed to cast their ballots.
Despite her age, Mrs. Onike arrived early at the polling unit, determined to take part in the electoral process. “I am 96 years old, and I still want to vote for the good of our people,” she said.
Her situation drew sympathy from voters and observers, many of whom appealed to election officials to show understanding toward elderly citizens, even as the law mandates proper identification and accreditation before voting.
Mrs. Onike’s experience highlights the challenges faced by elderly Nigerians who are eager to participate in elections but are sometimes hindered by documentation requirements.