The Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) has expressed satisfaction with the peaceful and orderly conduct of voters during the ongoing Area Council elections in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT).

The FCT Commandant of the NSCDC, Olusola Odumosu, gave the commendation on Saturday after monitoring polling units across the territory. He described the electoral process as calm, organised and devoid of security breaches.

According to him, security assessments across the area councils indicated that both voters and security personnel conducted themselves responsibly.

“We have gone round and seen things for ourselves. From what we observed, the exercise is progressing smoothly. There is no cause for alarm,” Odumosu stated.

He noted that extensive security deployments were made ahead of the elections to forestall any breakdown of law and order.

“Before now, we carried out massive deployments to all the area councils. From all the locations visited, the atmosphere has been peaceful,” he added.

The Commandant, however, assured residents that security agencies would remain vigilant, especially as the collation and announcement of results commence — a phase he described as sensitive.

“So far, the election has gone on smoothly. We are awaiting the conclusion of voting and the announcement of results. That stage will determine the next atmosphere. While we do not envisage violence, we are duty-bound to swiftly address any situation that may arise,” he said.

Odumosu further disclosed that about 4,000 NSCDC personnel were deployed across the FCT to provide security before, during and after the polls. He reiterated earlier warnings to officers to avoid accidental discharge while on election duty.

Over 1.5 million registered voters are expected to elect chairmen and councillors across the six area councils — Abuja Municipal Area Council (AMAC), Bwari, Gwagwalada, Kuje, Abaji and Kwali.

A total of 68 positions are being contested, comprising six chairmanship seats and 62 councillorship seats.

Security agencies have continued to monitor developments closely as voting progresses across the territory.