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Nigeria Closes Borders, Tightens Security Before Presidential Vote

   Joe DeCapua  April 15, 2011
   Voters waiting after casting ballots at their polling station in Abuja,
   , to hear the results

Photo: VOA - Nasiru Adamu el-Hikaya

   After casting their ballots earlier this month, voters in Abuja await
   the results. Election officials have asked voters to await the results
   at the stations to help ensure there's no tampering. The presidential
   vote is set for Saturday, April 16.

   -- Nigeria holds its presidential elections Saturday and security is
   tight throughout the country. The military has a strong presence and is
   ready to help police in the event of any election violence.

   Nigeria has closed its borders with neighboring countries in advance of
   the vote. Nigeria shares ethnic groups with some of its neighbors,
   resulting in many names that are the same. Election authorities want to
   ensure that only Nigerians go to the polls.

   The ballot papers were printed in China. Authorities say not only was
   it cheaper, but China guaranteed the election materials would be
   delivered on time. Officials say it was difficult finding a Nigerian
   firm that could meet those conditions.

   President Goodluck Jonathan, who assumed power after the death of
   President Yar'Adua, is seeking a full, four-year term in office. His
   chances were boosted this week by the failure of the three main
   opposition parties to agree on a consensus candidate. The ruling PDP
   says it hopes Jonathan will win enough votes Saturday to prevent a
   run-off election.

   VOA reporter Chinedu Offor is on assignment in Nigeria, reporting
   Friday from Port Harcourt in Rivers State. To hear his interview with
   Joe De Capua, click on the link below.