Ahead of Saturday’s State Assembly election, the Edo State Government has declared today, Friday, March 17, 2023, a half-work day.

In a statement, the Secretary to the State Government, Osarodion Ogie Esq., said the directive, which implies that government offices and establishments will close for work by 12 noon, is to allow workers in the state travel to their respective constituencies to exercise their franchise.

According to him, “The Edo State Governor, Mr. Godwin Obaseki, has approved today, Friday, March 17, 2023, as a half-work day to allow workers in the state travel to their respective constituencies to exercise their franchise. With this notice, Government Ministries, Departments and Agencies (MDAs) are to close by 12noon.”

He added, “All government establishments except those on essential duties are expected to be closed by 12 noon and the workers are encouraged to take advantage of the half-work day to travel to their various constituencies to participate in tomorrow's State House of Assembly Election.”

Ogie explained that “the state government is keen on ensuring that every eligible voter in the state is provided the opportunity to participate in the March 18 State House of Assembly election.”