- As Wike restricts movement from 8pm on Friday to 6pm on Saturday
BY EVELYN DADU – With Saturday’s Area Council elections in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) less than 24 hours away, workers in the nation’s capital city will today, Friday, 20th February 2026, enjoy a work-free day.
The FCT Minister, Nyesom Wike, made the declaration in a special broadcast aired on national television and radio stations on Thursday, even as he also announced a restriction of movement from 8pm on Friday to 6pm on Saturday.
Wike, who urged FCT residents to come out en masse to vote for candidates of their choice, said in the broadcast, “On Saturday, February 21, we will all have a crucial opportunity to shape the future of our great Federal Capital Territory. The election of either new or returning Chairmen and Councillors for the six Area Councils is a momentous occasion, and I urge you to come out in your numbers to exercise your right to vote.
“I urge you to go to the polls with a sense of purpose and responsibility. As we exercise our democratic right, let us do so in an orderly and lawful manner. Let us respect the rules, respect each other, and respect the outcome of the election. We must show the world that we are a mature and responsible electorate, capable of conducting ourselves with dignity and decorum.”
Further explaining that President Bola Ahmed Tinubu approved the work-free day to enable residents travel to their respective communities to participate in the elections, the Minister said: “Similarly, the President has approved the restriction of movement within the FCT from 8pm on Friday, February 20 to 6pm on Saturday, February 21, 2026. Consequently, all security agencies are directed to ensure strict compliance with this directive”.
Wike, who stressed the importance of participatory democracy, said: “To all FCT residents, I urge you to make your voice heard. Come out on Saturday, February 21, 2026, and vote for the candidates of your choice.
“Our prayer, as an administration, is that the elections will facilitate the emergence of quality leaders who will contribute meaningfully to development, peace and prosperity in the FCT. Together, let us build a brighter future for ourselves, our children and our territory.”
Meanwhile, the Minister has commended President Tinubu for signing the Electoral Act Amendment Bill 2026 into law, describing it as a demonstration of commitment to strengthening democratic institutions and ensuring free, fair and transparent elections.
“My dear residents, democracy has always been a work in progress due to the evolving democratic process. However, we will keep improving by continually reviewing the Electoral Act with a view to strengthening our democratic system”, Wike said.
