Watchdog groups monitoring the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) elections in Nigeria have reported a mixed picture of efficiency and malpractice, with allegations of open vote-buying and logistical delays marring an otherwise peaceful vote. The Nigeria Civil Society Situation Room, a coalition of prominent observer groups, released an interim report on Saturday afternoon noting that while the atmosphere remained calm, significant hurdles faced voters across the capital’s six area councils.
Allegations of ‘Open’ Vote-Buying
In a stark contrast to official claims of a smooth process, observers reported witnessing voters being paid for their ballots. According to the Situation Room, “vote trading” was observed in several polling units, particularly within the Abuja Municipal Area Council (AMAC). In some instances, votes were allegedly being bought for as much as 10,000 Naira (£5.50 / $7).”Vote buying was observed in many polling units visited. In a few places, it was openly done,” the group stated in their midday briefing.
Tech Success vs. Logistical Delays
While the electoral commission (INEC) praised the speed of its new biometric systems, observers noted a “relatively late” start to proceedings.
Late Starts: Polls opened at an average time of 09:15, over an hour behind schedule in many areas due to the late arrival of staff and materials.
Tech Performance: The Bimodal Voter Accreditation System (BVAS) was generally efficient, with accreditation taking roughly one minute per person, though isolated glitches were reported in Gwagwalada and the City Centre.
Confusion: Some voters struggled to find their polling stations after they were moved at short notice.
Security and Conduct
The report highlighted a “significant” and professional security presence, involving police, civil defence, and even the fire service. However, the observers flagged a bizarre breach of protocol in the Kuje area, where an individual was spotted wearing both a political party agent tag and an official INEC official’s jacket simultaneously. In a separate incident in Gwagwalada, security services had to intervene after a voter arrived at a polling unit armed with a cutlass, sparking a confrontation with local youths.
Inclusion Failures
The Situation Room expressed particular concern over the lack of support for voters with disabilities. Despite promises of inclusivity:Braille guides and magnifying glasses were largely absent.Even in Karimajiji—a well-known “disability colony”—assistive materials were reportedly not deployed. The Situation Room has called on security agencies and political parties to maintain the current “calm” as the process moves into the critical counting and collation phase later tonight.
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