There is a high presence of soldiers and police officers all over Benin City as the Edo State gubernatorial election begins today. Many roads have also been completely blocked.

As early as 4 am, soldiers were already setting up blockades on the major roads, including Sakponba Road, one of the busiest streets in Benin City.

They used tyres and other objects to block traffic.

Security officers are also stopping everyone plying the road. People heading to polling units were checked carefully before they were allowed to continue. Cars on the roads were also stopped and searched. By 6 a.m., most of the roads were fully closed, and only a few people, such as emergency workers, were allowed through.

The election is contested by about 17 political parties including the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and the All Progressives Congress (APC).