The Chairman of the Peering Advocacy and Advancement Centre in Africa, Ezenwa Nwangwu, has expressed concern over the low voter turnout recorded in the recently concluded Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Area Council elections.
Speaking on Monday during an appearance on ARISE Television’s Morning Show, Nwangwu described the development as troubling, despite reports that the elections were largely peaceful across the six area councils.
The polls, held over the weekend, saw the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) secure victory in five of the six area councils, while the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) clinched the Gwagwalada Area Council.
Observers noted that although the electoral process was calm and orderly, turnout across several polling units was significantly low, particularly in cosmopolitan districts where many residents work within the city but reside in surrounding suburbs.
Nwangwu attributed part of the voter apathy to movement restrictions, stating that some registered voters were unable to cast their ballots due to the curfew imposed during the election period.
“Observers agree the elections were peaceful in FCT’s six area councils. However, voter turnout was low, especially in cosmopolitan areas where people work in the city but live in suburbs,” he said.
“Many registered voters couldn’t vote due to the curfew. Citizens must engage in civic responsibility by voting. Not voting is actually voting for something else.”
He emphasized the need for stronger civic engagement and encouraged citizens to actively participate in the democratic process to ensure their voices are heard.
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