Senator representing the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Ireti Kingibe, has expressed deep disappointment over the low turnout of voters during the FCT Area Council elections held on Saturday.
Speaking with journalists after casting her vote in Maitama, Abuja, the senator described the level of voter participation as discouraging and questioned why many residents failed to come out and perform their civic duty.
She said there was widespread voter apathy, noting that the poor turnout was disappointing, especially given the importance of local government administration.
“There is extreme voter apathy. People are not coming out to vote. It is a great shame, and I am extremely disappointed. I expected residents to take the elections seriously, particularly because local government chairmen receive significant allocations and funds to carry out their responsibilities,” she said.
Kingibe explained that the election offered residents an important opportunity to choose leaders who directly impact their daily lives at the grassroots level. She added that active participation in the electoral process would help address frequent complaints of harassment and misconduct by some local government officials.
She urged residents to go beyond complaints and use their votes to bring about the change they desire.
“In some areas, voters face intimidation, while in others they do not. People often complain about harassment by local government officials, but they must do more than complain. The will of the people always prevails. If the people want the ruling party, they will elect the ruling party, and if they want another party, they will elect another party,” she stated.
The senator also commended officials of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) for their conduct during the election in her polling unit. Although there were earlier concerns about the delay in the arrival of election materials, she said the electoral body should not be held responsible for the low turnout of voters.
She noted that the success of any election largely depends on the willingness of citizens to participate and make their voices heard through the ballot.
Kingibe Laments Low Voter Turnout in FCT Area Council Elections
