Yiaga Africa Raises Concerns Over 2026 FCT Elections

Yiaga Africa has expressed significant concerns about inconsistencies in the preparations for the 2026 FCT area council elections. Samson Itodo, the Executive Director of Yiaga Africa, briefed newsmen in Abuja, emphasizing that logistical challenges could adversely affect the timely commencement of polls, particularly in the Abuja Municipal Area Council (AMAC).

Observations revealed that essential voting materials were missing at several polling units, leading to confusion and long wait times for voters. Cynthia Mabamalu, Yiaga's Director of Programs, noted that polling units should remain open until 2:30 PM to accommodate all eligible voters.

She urged the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to consider extending voting hours to 4:30 PM in areas with high voter turnout to prevent disenfranchisement. Furthermore, Yiaga Africa called for strict adherence to established legal procedures for result collation to ensure transparency and build public trust in the electoral process.