Wike announces Friday as work-free day, imposes restriction in preparation for FCT poll
File Photo: FCT Minister, Nyesom Wike.
The Federal Capital Territory Minister, Nyesom Wike, has declared “a work-free day on Friday,” and imposed a restriction of movement from 8 pm on Friday until 6 pm on Saturday ahead of the Area Council elections.
Wike made the announcement in a special broadcast on national television and radio stations on Thursday, urging residents to participate actively in the polls.
His broadcast was contained in a press statement signed by his Senior Special Assistant on Public Communications and Social Media, Lere Olayinka.
He said, “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.”
Wike noted that the work-free day and movement restriction were approved by President Bola Tinubu to allow residents to travel to their communities and ensure smooth voting.
“With the approval of President Asiwaju Bola Tinubu, I hereby declare Friday, February 20, 2026, as a Work Free Day to enable movement of residents to their various communities to participate in the elections.
“Similarly, the President has approved the restriction of movement within the FCT from 8 pm on Friday, February 20 to 6pm on Saturday, February 21, 2026. Consequently, all security agencies are directed to ensure strict compliance with this directive.
“Consequently, all security agencies are directed to ensure strict compliance with this directive,” he said.
The minister also commended President Tinubu for signing the Electoral Act Amendment Bill 2026, saying it reflects a commitment to strengthening democratic institutions and ensuring free, fair, and transparent elections.
He added, “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 such quality leaders that 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.”
Voters in Abuja Municipal Area Council, Bwari, Gwagwalada, Kuje, Abaji and Kwali will head to the polls to elect chairmen and councillors.
The campaign period, which began in September 2025, is set to conclude today. A total of 68 positions are being contested, including six chairmanship seats and 62 councillorship roles.
