Yiaga Africa and other civil society organisations (CSOs) have raised concerns over irregularities and logistical issues observed during the Area Council elections in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) held on Saturday February 21 2026, saying certain lapses could undermine the credibility of the polls.
In a preliminary observation report released on the day of voting, Yiaga Africa highlighted several issues including the late arrival of election materials at some polling units and the late notification of changes in voting units for some voters. These problems, the group said, contributed to confusion and potential voter disenfranchisement in parts of the territory.
The organisation also noted that the movement of security agencies across polling areas made it difficult for accredited election observers to move freely and monitor the exercise, saying this could affect the transparency of the process. Yiaga Africa called on the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to provide clearer public information and improve its logistical planning in future elections.

Another coalition of CSOs, known as BallotEye, echoed similar concerns about the last-minute relocation of voting stations for many eligible voters, which it said led to uncertainty about where people were supposed to cast their ballots. The group urged election officials to explain these changes and help voters locate their reassigned polling units.
The reaction from civil society adds to wider commentary on the FCT polls with other observer groups reporting late openings at polling units, voter apathy and even instances of vote trading in some areas, concerns that local CSOs say should be taken seriously to build voter trust and strengthen democratic processes.