Residents of Kaduna have expressed frustration over the delayed arrival of electoral officials and materials at polling centers during the local government elections on Saturday. Voters criticized the Kaduna State Independent Electoral Commission (KADSIECOM) for the mishap, which affected the timely commencement of the electoral process in the 23 LGAs.
Despite KADSIECOM’s announcement of the election date in July, reports from the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) revealed that by 9 a.m., many polling units across the metropolis still had no officials or election materials. Voters, including youths and women, who had arrived as early as 7 a.m., were left disappointed, with groups of residents discussing the situation while security agents maintained a presence at key locations.
Abigail Musa, a resident of Narayi, expressed her dismay at the lack of election activity despite the enthusiastic turnout. “It’s rather saddening as you can see a lot of people with enthusiasm but are shocked as this is rather unusual,” she said.
Similarly, Sani Bege of Ungwan Sunday polling station reported that people had gathered as early as 6:30 a.m. but were still waiting for the exercise to begin. The delay has sparked concerns over the organization and management of the electoral process in Kaduna.