By Stellamaries Amuwa
The Civil Society Legislative Advocacy Centre (CISLAC) and the Transition Monitoring Group (TMG) have raised concerns over voter apathy, logistical shortcomings and alleged political interference in elections conducted in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Rivers and Kano states.
In a statement signed by Auwal Musa Rafsanjani, Executive Director of CISLAC and Chairman of TMG, the groups described the elections as largely peaceful in most polling units but said significant challenges were recorded across the affected states.
CISLAC and TMG observers warned that Nigerians are gradually losing trust in the electoral process. According to them, when citizens no longer turn out to vote, “it is no longer an election but a selection,” a trend they described as dangerous for democratic governance.
Low Voter Turnout and Accessibility Gaps, the statement noted that voter turnout was generally low, with many polling units recording poor participation. In some locations, observers reported that as few as 10 voters cast their ballots throughout the day. The groups cautioned that persistent voter apathy poses a serious threat to democratic participation and public confidence in elections.
Monitoring teams from TAF Africa, formerly The Albino Foundation, and the Joint National Association of Persons with Disabilities reported accessibility challenges for persons with disabilities. Despite assurances from the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), physical access remained a major barrier in several areas.
In rural FCT councils such as Kwali and Abaji, polling units were reportedly located in places inaccessible to wheelchair users. Observers called for a comprehensive audit of INEC’s assistive tools, noting that magnifying glasses and Braille posters were missing in more than 60 per cent of the polling units observed.
Logistical Delays and Alleged Voter Suppression.The groups highlighted logistical challenges that delayed the commencement of voting, particularly within the Abuja Municipal Area Council, where late deployment of personnel and election materials resulted in several polling units opening behind schedule. They also raised concerns about alleged voter suppression targeting women in high-density areas. According to observers, economic intimidation was used in some communities to discourage women from joining queues, further widening the gender participation gap.
CISLAC and TMG said the elections should serve as an early warning for future general elections and urged INEC to address the logistical weaknesses identified. They called for improved systems to guarantee early deployment of materials and the prompt start of voting in subsequent polls.
Allegations of Political Interference. The statement accused the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, of allegedly interfering in the FCT Area Council elections by appearing at multiple polling units across Abuja. The groups described his presence as inappropriate and potentially undermining the credibility of the process, noting that he is not a registered voter in the FCT and holds no constitutional role in the conduct of elections.
