The Independent National Electoral Commission will hold its first major elections under the new legal framework this Saturday, overseeing Area Council polls in the Federal Capital Territory alongside key bye-elections in Rivers State and Kano State.
The exercise is widely seen as an early test of the Electoral Act 2026, recently signed by Bola Tinubu.
FCT Minister Nyesom Wike declared a work-free day and ordered movement restrictions to support smooth voting. According to INEC Chairman Joash Amupitan, the FCT election will involve more than 1.6 million registered voters across over 2,800 polling units in the six Area Councils.
Bye-elections will also take place in select state constituencies in both Rivers and Kano. The polls will operate under updated electoral procedures, including the strengthened use of BVAS and the IReV portal, measures observers say could shape preparations for the 2027 general elections.
In a broadcast conveyed by his Senior Special Assistant, Lere Olayinka, the minister explained that the public holiday would allow residents to travel and vote, while security agencies would enforce movement limits.
“Similarly, the President has approved the restriction of movement within the FCT from 8p.m., of February 20 to 6p.m., of February 21, 2026. Consequently, all security agencies are directed to ensure strict compliance with this directive,” Wike said.
He urged residents to participate responsibly, stressing the importance of electing chairmen and councillors who will shape the territory’s future.
“We must show the world that we are a mature and responsible electorate, capable of conducting ourselves with dignity and decorum.”
Wike also praised the new electoral law as proof of the government’s commitment to credible elections, adding:
“Democracy has always been a work-in-progress due to the evolving democratic process. However, we will keep getting better by always looking into the Electoral Act with a view to strengthening our democratic process,” he added.
The minister encouraged strong voter turnout, saying:
“My dear residents, I urge you to make your voice heard.
Come out on Saturday, and vote for the candidates of your choice. 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,” he added.
