There is heavy vehicular movement on routes leading to the central districts of Abuja as Nigeria’s general elections kick off on Saturday morning.

However, soldiers from the Nigerian Army blocked many of the entry routes to Abuja from the Nasarawa state end.

Earlier, the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) had announced movement restrictions on Election Day except those on essential duties.

As early as 5am, soldiers blocked routes from Mararaba, Nyanya, Jikwoyi, Karu and the Kugbo Checkpoint, preventing motorists from accessing the Asokoro District of Abuja and other parts of the city.

The situation caused serious gridlock on the road as motorists, mainly voters and officials on official duties were prevented from proceeding further, causing many to resort to trekking.

However, the Kugbo checkpoint was partially reopened around 07:10am.