According to Channels TV, FCT Minister Nyesom Wike has declared Friday a work-free day and announced a total restriction of movement from 8 PM Friday to 6 PM Saturday. The measures are intended to ensure a peaceful and orderly conduct of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Area Council elections, which have seen a surge in political activity.
The Minister emphasized that the restrictions are necessary to prevent security breaches and allow the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to deploy personnel and materials effectively. Seventeen political parties are contesting the polls, with several high-profile candidates making last-minute alliances, including some PDP chairmanship candidates stepping down for APC rivals.
The Nation validated the report, noting that “security personnel have been deployed to all entry points of the FCT to enforce the lockdown.”
Leadership reported on the political tension, quoting Minister Wike: “We will not tolerate any act of thuggery or electoral malpractice; the security of the capital is non-negotiable.”
Tribune added a quote from an INEC official: “Everything is in place for a credible exercise, provided the movement restrictions are strictly adhered to.”
Echotitbits take:
These elections are a significant litmus test for the popularity of the ruling APC and the fragmented opposition in the nation’s capital. The last-minute defections and endorsements suggest a high-stakes power play behind the scenes. Watch for the voter turnout numbers, as movement restrictions often have a dual effect of securing the polls but discouraging casual voters.
Source: Premium Times – https://www.premiumtimesng.com/news/top-news/858051-fct-elections-minister-declares-friday-work-free-orders-movement-restriction.html, February 20, 2026
Photo credit: Premium Times
