As registered voters in the Federal Capital Territory, FCT head to the polls to elect Area Council chairmen and councillors, the exercise across Kwali, Abaji and Gwagwalada Area Councils recorded varying levels of turnout, minor challenges and isolated incidents.
In Kwali Area Council, voters turned out at polling units under calm conditions, although some accreditation delays were recorded due to BVAS glitches.
In Abaji Area Council, there were pockets of ballot paper and ballot box snatching, alongside incidents of vote buying in some polling units.
Despite these, turnout was described as impressive, with voters queuing patiently while electoral officials and security personnel maintained order.
In Gwagwalada Area Council, officials of the Independent National Electoral Commission, INEC were seen at polling units as early as 8a.m.
Turnout was initially low, a situation attributed to the fasting period, but improved as the day progressed.
AIT.live observed that some political parties were missing on the ballot papers, particularly in parts of Gwagwalada Central wards.
There were also accusations of vote buying in some areas, while other voters described the process as generally fair.
Across the councils visited, the election was largely peaceful, though observers say addressing technical challenges and electoral malpractice remains critical to strengthening confidence in the process.
(Editor: Terverr Tyav)
