(JUST IN) FCT polls : ADC secures first victory over APC

 

The African Democratic Congress (ADC) has secured its first polling unit win against the All Progressives Congress (APC) in the ongoing Area Council elections in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT).

The contest, marked by low voter turnout in several locations, saw the opposition coalition emerge victorious at polling unit 076, Sani Abacha Estate, Wuse Zone 4. The unit is where Dr. Moses Paul, the Abuja Municipal Area Council (AMAC) candidate, voted.

Out of 10 ballots cast at the unit, ADC secured seven votes, while APC garnered two. One ballot was declared invalid.

Earlier in the day, Paul alleged that agents of his party were being intimidated and linked the low turnout to movement restrictions announced by the FCT Minister.

He said the turnout was far lower than expected and attributed it to what he described as confusion created by the restriction directive.

He said he had lived in AMAC for about 40 years and had never witnessed such a situation, noting that the development appeared like “a state of emergency” over what he considered unwarranted.

He said although electoral officials at his polling unit were professional and followed due process, reports reaching him indicated that ADC agents in Takum Shara and parts of Kabusa ward, including Dogongada and Shereti, were allegedly threatened and intimidated.

He added that some agents were allegedly told they would be maimed or killed, and noted that such actions were aimed at suppressing voters and influencing the process in favour of the ruling party.

He said vote buying was criminal and alleged that it was ongoing in parts of the capital city.

He added that despite the challenges, he remained confident of emerging victorious, noting that the will of the people would prevail and urging Nigerians to resist intimidation and demand accountable leadership.

(DAILY TRUST)