By Jethro Ibileke

Senior citizens trouped out by their numbers on Saturday in Ewohimi, the hometown of the candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Asue Ighodalo, to exercise their civic responsibility.

Ewohimi is the second largest towns in Esan South East local government area of Edo State.

Many of there them were seen walking with walking sticks and clutches and others were supported by their family members.

The elderly people who waited patiently even while INEC officials were yet to arrive with voting materials, were all eager to cast their votes.

It is apparent that the large turnout was spurred by their strong motivation to give their votes for their son who is a native of Ewohimi.

Pa Honda Ikehide, a 91-year-old community leader and the oldest man in Ewohimi, said he was happy to come out and vote.

He said: “This is the first time I am seeing so many elders like myself come out to vote.

“I have lived long enough to know when something important is happening. Today, we are standing with our own.”

On his part, Pa Wilson Bello, said the atmosphere is filled with optimism and a sense of shared purpose as they express hope for a brighter future with one of their own vying for a leadership position.

He said: “It is a great day for us. Our people are united, especially our elderly, who understand the significance of this moment.

“Ewohimi has never seen this level of participation by our elderly population, and it is because we believe in the capacity and vision of our son, who is one of us.

“Our turnout, is against all odds, is a testament to our resolve and the desire for progress of Ewohimi and the state in general,” he added.