FCT POLLS: BALLOT PAPERS MISSING AT ABAJI COUNCIL POLLING UNIT, VOTING STALLED

Voting at the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Area Council elections in Abaji Area Council was disrupted after ballot papers reportedly went missing at AU Suleman 003 polling unit, bringing the exercise to a halt. According to on‑site reports, the incident occurred when an unidentified individual, accompanied by a security personnel, entered the polling venue without clear identification. A PDP agent at the unit said the situation escalated after he questioned the person’s presence, leading to confusion and the use of tear gas by security forces, which scattered voters. In the ensuing chaos, the ballot papers could not be located and voting was suspended. Party agents have lodged accusations against rival parties, and INEC officials have yet to confirm the whereabouts of the missing ballot papers or announce when voting will resume at the affected unit. Related Developments at Other Polling UnitsDelays and logistical issues have been reported across multiple FCT polling units, with INEC officials arriving behind schedule and some units yet to begin voting. Movement restrictions imposed for the polls have been widely flouted by motorists and residents across Abuja, even as election materials are distributed.