The Chairman of Bwari Area Council, Mr. John Gabaya, has expressed confidence that the ongoing Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Area Council elections will end successfully, despite the low turnout of voters recorded in parts of the council.

Gabaya spoke with journalists shortly after casting his vote at Tokulo Primary School polling unit in his village on Saturday morning.

He acknowledged that although the voting process commenced on time in most polling units, voter participation was initially low.

However, he expressed optimism that turnout would improve as the day progressed.

“Elections started as scheduled. While turnout is not impressive at the moment, we are hopeful that more residents will come out to exercise their civic responsibility,” he said.

The council chairman urged residents to remain peaceful and orderly throughout the exercise, assuring them that all necessary procedures were in place to ensure a credible process where every valid vote would count.

Also speaking, the Council Secretary, Mr. Eli Kadanya, described the process as smooth and peaceful so far. After casting his vote, he commended electoral officials for their preparedness and professionalism, noting that the exercise had been conducted without disruption.

Kadanya also praised voters who turned out early, encouraging others to emulate their commitment to civic duty.

A visit by NAN correspondents to several polling units revealed that accreditation and voting began around 9:00 a.m., with officials of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) present and awaiting voters in many centres.

Among the early voters was Mrs. Murna Bulus, a 70-year-old retired Air Force officer, who arrived at her polling unit before 7:00 a.m.

“I am used to being punctual. When I have something important to do, I make sure I get there early and complete it on time,” she said.

Bulus explained that she came out to vote because it is her constitutional right and a patriotic duty.

While some residents were seen casting their ballots, others went about their regular daily activities, reflecting a mixed level of participation across the area.

The exercise is expected to continue peacefully across Bwari Area Council.