By Adesakin Adefemi
The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, has declared Friday, February 20, 2026, a work-free day and announced a territory-wide movement restriction from 8:00 p.m. on Friday to 6:00 p.m. on Saturday, February 21, 2026, to facilitate the smooth conduct of the upcoming Area Council elections.
The announcement was made during a special broadcast on national television and radio stations on Thursday evening.
According to the Minister, the measures were approved by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and are intended to allow residents to travel to their respective communities and participate fully in the elections for chairmen and councillors across the six area councils of the FCT.
He emphasized that the decision was taken to ensure that no eligible voter is disenfranchised due to work or movement constraints.
“Let us respect the rules, respect each other, and respect the outcome of the election,” Wike said, urging residents to turn out in large numbers to vote. “We must show the world that we are a mature and responsible electorate, capable of conducting ourselves with dignity and decorum.” He further called on political parties, candidates, and their supporters to avoid any acts of thuggery, vote-buying, or intimidation, stressing that security agencies have been placed on high alert to protect voters and electoral officials.
The Minister also commended President Tinubu for signing the Electoral Act Amendment Bill 2026 into law, describing it as a clear demonstration of the President’s commitment to strengthening democratic institutions and ensuring free, fair, and transparent elections. He noted that the new law provides a stronger legal framework for addressing electoral offenses and enhancing the credibility of Nigeria’s electoral process.
Security agencies, including the Nigeria Police Force, the Nigerian Security and Civil Defence Corps, and other relevant bodies, have been directed to enforce strict compliance with the movement restriction. Checkpoints will be mounted across major roads and entry points into the territory, and only essential workers and those on emergency duties will be exempted from the restriction.
The FCT Administration expressed optimism that the elections will produce leaders who will contribute meaningfully to development, peace, and prosperity in the territory. It also called on traditional rulers, religious leaders, and civil society organizations to mobilize citizens to participate peacefully and responsibly.
The Area Council elections are expected to draw significant voter participation, with stakeholders emphasizing the importance of peaceful and orderly conduct throughout the process. Observers from local and international organizations are expected to monitor the elections to ensure transparency and fairness.
