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By Gabriel Ameh
đAbuja
Youth participation appeared subdued in parts of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) during Saturdayâs Area Council Election, with several young residents observed engaging in recreational activities rather than voting.
Across multiple locations including Lugbe, Gwarinpa, Gwagwalada, Kuje and along Airport Road groups of young people were seen playing football and socialising while polling units operated.
The election, conducted by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), was expected to draw grassroots participation across the six Area Councils of the FCT.
Earlier, the FCT Minister, Nyesom Wike, had announced movement restrictions across Abuja and adjoining Area Councils to ensure a smooth and secure electoral process.
Despite the directive, some commercial taxi drivers, particularly in the outskirts of the city, were observed operating during the restricted hours.
While official voter turnout figures are yet to be released, the visible absence of many young people at polling units in several districts has raised fresh questions about youth engagement in local governance elections within the nationâs capital.
Observers note that Area Council elections play a critical role in shaping grassroots leadership and local development priorities.
As of the time of filing this report, INEC had not issued a formal statement regarding voter turnout trends across the FCT.
