Ireti Kingibe Critiques Low Voter Turnout in FCT Elections

Ireti Kingibe, a senator representing the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), lamented the low voter turnout during the area council elections held on Saturday in Abuja. Speaking to journalists after casting her vote in Maitama, she expressed disappointment over the apathy among residents, which she deemed troubling given the significance of local government administration and the allocation of public funds.

Kingibe highlighted that the elections provide residents with the opportunity to choose local leaders who can influence governance at the community level. She noted the need for increased civic engagement to address recurring complaints of harassment and misconduct by local government officials.

Despite the low turnout, she commended the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) for conducting the elections, clarifying that the commission should not be held responsible for voter apathy. Kingibe urged citizens to move beyond complaints and actively exercise their democratic rights, emphasizing that the outcome of elections should reflect the people's choices.