…Says movement to be restricted on election day
Ahead of the FCT Area Council elections, the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, has declared Friday, February 20, 2026, as a Work Free Day for all residents of the FCT.
In a formal broadcast addressed to the residents of the FCT, the Minister explained that the directive, which was approved by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, is intended to facilitate the movement of citizens to their respective communities in preparation for the Area Council Elections scheduled for Saturday, February 21.
The FCT Minister while emphasizing the significance of the upcoming polls, where Chairmen and Councilors for the six area councils will be elected, also disclosed that key security measures and restrictions would be in place to ensure a seamless and secure voting process.
Accordingly, the Minister stated that a total restriction of movement would be enforced across the FCT from 8:00 PM on Friday, February 20, until 6:00 PM on Saturday, February 21, 2026 to ensure a seamless and secure voting process,
He said all security agencies have been directed to ensure strict compliance with the movement restriction to maintain law and order.
Wike also used the occasion to expressed profound gratitude to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for signing the Electoral Act Amendment Bill 2026 into law which he said will further strengthen the democratic process.
“This action demonstrates the President’s commitment to strengthening our democratic institutions and ensuring that our electoral processes are free, fair, and transparent,” the Minister stated.
The Minister also urged all residents to exercise their democratic rights with a sense of purpose and decorum and called for a peaceful conduct that reflects a mature and responsible electorate.
“Our prayer, as an administration, is that the elections will facilitate the emergence of such quality leaders that will contribute meaningfully to development, peace, and prosperity in the FCT,” Barr. Wike added.
He invited all eligible voters to come out in their numbers on Saturday to make their voices heard and contribute to building a brighter future for the Territory.
