Amidst tight security in Abuja, Nigeria’s capital, voters today came out in large numbers to cast their ballots in the 2015 general elections. The large turnout indicated an energized electorate as well as determination by voters across the political spectrum to have their votes count.
However, the accreditation process started off with some hitches. As at 10 a.m., polling stations in Dutse, Gwarimpa, Utako, Wuse, Maitama and Asokoro districts were yet to receive accreditation materials—despite the fact that the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) had scheduled voter accreditation to commence at 8:00 a.m. and end at 1 p.m.
Even so, our correspondents reported that accreditation had started by 11 a.m. at most of the polling stations they visited in Abuja.
Speaking with prospective voters in these districts that span across Abuja, our correspondents reported that there was a palpable air of excitement across the city, as voters from different political camps seemed fired up.
The correspondents noted the heavy security presence in the Federal Capital Territory. One reporter said agents from the Department of State Security (DSS), the police, Road Safety Corps, and the military were visible on the streets and at all polling stations.