Nigeria election: millions go to the polls in crucial ‘bellwether’ vote

Tight contest looms in vote regarded by analysts as ‘important barometer’ for Africa

Tens of millions of Nigerians head to voting booths on Saturday to decide a tight and unpredictable contest for the presidency and parliament of Africa’s most populous nation and its biggest economy.

Analysts have spoken of a “bellwether” election that could be crucial turning point after several years of worsening insecurity and acute economic troubles. Many see a credible poll and progress in tackling Nigeria’s multiple problems as key to stability across a swath of Africa.