By Abdullahi Alhassan
Kaduna, Nigeria, February 22, 2026(Series News Online)
The Civil Society Legislative Advocacy Centre (CISLAC) and the Transition Monitoring Group (TMG) have expressed alarm over voter apathy, logistical shortcomings, and alleged political interference in the recent elections held in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Rivers, and Kano states.
In a statement signed by Auwal Musa Rafsanjani, Executive Director of CISLAC and Chairman of TMG, the groups described the elections as largely peaceful but noted significant challenges, including low voter turnout and accessibility issues for persons with disabilities.
"When citizens no longer turn out to vote, it is no longer an election but a selection," the statement read, warning that persistent voter apathy poses a serious threat to democratic participation and public confidence in elections.
The groups highlighted logistical challenges that delayed voting, particularly in Abuja, and alleged voter suppression targeting women in high-density areas. They also accused the FCT Minister, Nyesom Wike, of interfering in the FCT Area Council elections.
CISLAC and TMG called on the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to address logistical weaknesses and improve systems for future elections. They also urged President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to ensure public officials comply with the law and refrain from actions that could erode public confidence in the electoral process.
The groups expressed concern over disruptions to INEC's Result Viewing Portal and called on security agencies to maintain impartiality during the electoral process.
Tags
politics