In a tense presidential election, Nigerians cast their ballots.

Nigeria is in the midst of a crucial presidential election and simultaneous voting for representatives to its parliament. This hotly contested poll is the largest democratic exercise in Africa, with about 93 million Nigerians registered to vote, although only 87 million hold a permanent voter card (PVC), a key requirement to cast a ballot.

Polling stations across the nation’s approximately 140,000 polling units opened at 8:30 a.m. local time on Saturday and will close at 2:30 p.m. (or 2:30 a.m. ET Saturday to 8:30 a.m. ET). However, those in line to vote by closing time will still be permitted to cast their ballots, according to the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC).

People would be aware of the winners before the formal announcement thanks to the electronic transmission system (IREV), according to a spokeswoman for INEC’s chair. A candidate must fulfill the 25% vote spread and receive a certain amount of votes in 24 out of Nigeria’s 36 states in order to win. If this criterion is not satisfied, the top two contenders will face off in a run-off within 21 days.

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