By Our Correspondent
The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has reported a hitch-free start to the 2026 Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Area Council elections, with smooth accreditation and early voting recorded in three area councils.
According to INEC officials, the process commenced without major logistical challenges in Gwagwalada, Kwali, and Bwari area councils. The Bi-Modal Voter Accreditation System (BVAS) functioned effectively in the affected polling units, enabling voters to be accredited and cast their ballots without significant delays.
Across the FCT’s six area councils—Abaji, Abuja Municipal Area Council (AMAC), Bwari, Gwagwalada, Kuje, and Kwali—voters turned out early as polling units opened as scheduled. Security personnel were deployed to maintain order, while sensitive election materials were distributed to polling stations in good time.
With over 1.5 million registered voters expected to participate, the election marks a significant civic exercise in the nation’s capital. INEC expressed optimism that the orderly commencement witnessed in the early hours would be sustained throughout the voting process.