The Coalition for Local Election Administration Reform (CLEAR) has called for closer collaboration with the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) to address operational challenges ahead of the February 2026 Area Council elections.
CLEAR’s spokesperson, Princess Hamman-Obels, made the call on Tuesday, December 16, 2025, during an advocacy visit to the INEC FCT office. She said the engagement was aimed at identifying areas where technical support and strategic partnerships could strengthen electoral administration and improve voter experience.
She noted that the FCT Area Council elections are of significant national importance, as electoral outcomes and operational practices in the territory often serve as reference points for State Independent Electoral Commissions (SIECs) conducting local government elections across the country.
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Princess Hamman-Obels highlighted congestion at polling units as a recurring challenge in past elections, stressing the need for early interventions to decongest polling centres and enhance efficiency on election day. She said addressing the issue would also help boost voter confidence in the electoral process.
The coalition also emphasised the need for sustained voter education ahead of the polls and expressed readiness to support INEC’s voter enlightenment efforts through the dissemination of voter education jingles and flyers.
Meanwhile, the Youth Empowerment Solutions Initiative (YES) also visited the INEC FCT office, pledging support for initiatives aimed at increasing youth participation in the forthcoming Area Council elections. The group reaffirmed its commitment to promoting youth engagement in the electoral process.
