Local government elections in Kaduna State have faced significant disruptions due to delays in the arrival of election materials and officials. Voting, which was scheduled to begin at 8:00 AM on Saturday, had not started in many polling units by 10:00 AM, causing widespread frustration among voters and party agents.
Key areas such as Tudun Wada, Badiko, Magajin Gari, and Unguwar Sarki were notably affected by the delay, with officials and materials yet to arrive at several collection centres. Zubairu Shan’una, former councillor of Unguwar Sarki Ward, expressed concerns over the delay, stating, “We are still here waiting. The election was to commence by 8:30 AM, but as of 10:00 AM, the materials have yet to arrive.”
Party agents, like Malam Idris at Maimuna Gwarzo Secondary School, also shared their frustration, having arrived early only to find no officials or materials. “We have been here since 6:30 AM, but the officials are yet to arrive,” Idris reported, echoing the sentiments of many affected voters.
In Magajin Gari, the delay led to chaotic scenes, with party agents voicing concerns about the potential impact on voter turnout and the overall credibility of the election process. The situation continues to evolve as officials work to distribute the necessary materials.