FCT Council Elections: INEC Misses 8:30 AM Kick-Off as Logistics Delays Stall Voting

 

​The Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Council elections on February 21, 2026, have faced a rocky start as the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) failed to meet its scheduled 8:30 AM commencement time. In several Area Councils across Abuja, voters who arrived early at their polling units were met with empty stations, as sensitive election materials remained stuck at various Registration Area Centres (RACs). This logistical bottleneck has sparked concerns among observers and residents regarding the efficiency of the commission in delivering a seamless electoral process for the nation's capital.

​Logistical Stumbling Blocks: RAC Centers Overwhelmed

​According to on-the-ground reports and visual evidence from the Registration Area Centre (RAC) in Garki, sensitive materials—including ballot papers and the Bimodal Voter Accreditation System (BVAS) machines—were yet to be deployed as late as 9:00 AM. Video footage from the scene showed a flurry of activity as National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) members and ad-hoc staff waited for transportation to convey them and their materials to various polling units.

​The delay has been attributed to several factors, ranging from transportation challenges to the late arrival of security personnel required to escort the materials. While INEC had earlier promised that all logistics were in place for a "timely kick-off," the reality at the RACs tells a different story of a commission struggling with the last-mile delivery of election essentials.

​Voter Frustration and "Abuja's Early Birds"

​Residents of the FCT are known for their early turnout during elections, and this cycle was no different. In areas like Maitama, Asokoro, and Gwarinpa, many voters had queued up as early as 7:00 AM, hoping to exercise their franchise before the afternoon sun. However, the absence of INEC officials at the 8:30 AM mark led to a palpable sense of frustration and anxiety.

​Voters took to social media to document the delay, with many questioning why sensitive materials were still at the RACs long after they should have arrived at the polling units. Political analysts warn that such delays can lead to voter apathy, as some citizens may choose to return home rather than wait indefinitely for the process to begin.

​Security and Ad-hoc Staff Coordination

​A critical component of the delay appears to be the coordination between INEC and the various security agencies, including the Nigeria Police Force and the Civil Defence. Protocol dictates that sensitive materials cannot leave the RACs without adequate security cover. Reports suggest that in some centres, the shortfall of security personnel stalled the movement of vehicles, creating a backlog that cascaded through the morning schedule.

​Furthermore, the welfare and organization of ad-hoc staff (mostly NYSC members) have once again come under the spotlight. Despite the massive budget allocated for election logistics, the chaotic scenes at the Garki RAC suggest a need for more streamlined deployment strategies in future FCT elections.

​The Significance of the FCT Council Polls

​The FCT elections are unique because they are the only local government elections conducted by the national electoral body, INEC, rather than state-level commissions. This gives the polls a national profile, often seen as a litmus test for INEC's preparedness ahead of larger off-cycle gubernatorial elections.

​The 2026 council polls are particularly high-stakes, as major political parties, including the APC, PDP, and Labour Party, are vying for control of the six Area Councils: Abuja Municipal (AMAC), Bwari, Gwagwalada, Kuje, Kwali, and Abaji. Any delay in the voting process in the capital city sends a signal that is closely monitored by international observers and civil society organizations.

​INEC's Response and Expected Extensions

​While INEC has not released a formal statement detailing the specific cause of the 8:30 AM miss, officials on the ground have assured voters that "no one will be disenfranchised." In previous instances of logistical delays, the commission has extended the voting period by the same duration as the delay. However, this often leads to late-night counting and collation, which presents additional security challenges.

​Conclusion: A Call for Last-Mile Efficiency

​The failure to meet the 8:30 AM kick-off for the FCT elections is a reminder that logistics remain the "Achilles' heel" of the Nigerian electoral system. While technological advancements like the BVAS have improved the integrity of the vote, the physical movement of men and materials still requires a level of precision that remains elusive. As the day progresses, all eyes will be on how quickly INEC can close the gap and restore confidence in the day's proceedings.