Residents of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) on Saturday turned out to elect chairmen and councillors who will manage the affairs of the six Area Councils.
Unlike the 36 states where similar exercises are referred to as local government elections, the process in the FCT is known as Area Council polls. The territory is overseen by a minister appointed by the President, while states operate with elected governors and state assemblies.
Security operatives were seen assembling for deployment across the nation’s capital to ensure a peaceful exercise. Area councils represent the closest tier of elected government to the people, delivering vital services such as water supply, sanitation, local roads, schools, and healthcare. Their decisions have a direct impact on grassroots communities.
The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) is conducting the elections in 2,822 polling units spread across 62 wards within the six area councils — Abaji, Abuja Municipal Area Council (AMAC), Bwari, Gwagwalada, Kuje, and Kwali.
The last area council elections were held on February 12, 2022, resulting in a split outcome, with three councils won by the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and three by the All Progressives Congress (APC).
INEC’s list shows that only three women are contesting for chairmanship positions across the six councils, representing less than five percent of the total candidates. In Abaji, Anumnu Abigail of the Action Alliance is the sole female chairmanship candidate. AMAC features Richard Elizabeth of the Action Democratic Party, while Kuje has Aju Ukwa of the Zenith Labour Party as its only female contender for chairmanship. No female candidates are contesting for the top seat in Bwari, Gwagwalada, and Kwali.
Female participation is higher in the vice-chairmanship category, where several parties nominated women as running mates. As INEC confirmed its readiness for the elections, various streets, markets, and community centres across the FCT witnessed heightened anticipation.
Orderly Conduct
Earlier, President Bola Tinubu called for peaceful and orderly conduct during the elections in the FCT, Kano State, and Rivers State. In a statement issued by his spokesperson, Bayo Onanuga, the President urged security agencies to act with restraint and encouraged INEC to strengthen public confidence in the electoral process.
“President Tinubu urged all eligible voters to come out and vote without fear, emphasising that the democratic process thrives best in an atmosphere of calm, tolerance, and mutual respect,” the statement read.
He appealed to voters, security personnel, and officials of INEC to carry out their duties calmly and professionally, while also cautioning political parties, candidates, and supporters against violence, inflammatory remarks, or actions that could undermine the credibility of the elections.
The President warned security agencies against intimidation or conduct that could disenfranchise voters, stressing that their responsibility is to protect lives, property, and the integrity of the ballot.
Movement Restriction
On Thursday, FCT Minister Nyesom Wike declared Friday a work-free day and announced a restriction of movement from 8 pm on Friday to 6 pm on Saturday for the elections.
In a special broadcast, he urged residents to participate actively in the polls.
“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.
“At this juncture, with the approval of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, I hereby declare Friday, February 20, 2026, as a work-free day to enable the 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 6 pm on Saturday, February 21, 2026. Consequently, all security agencies are directed to ensure strict compliance with this directive.
“Let me again use this opportunity to appreciate President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for signing the Electoral Act Amendment Bill 2026 into law. This demonstrates his commitment to strengthening our democratic institutions and ensuring that our electoral processes are free, fair and transparent.
“My dear residents, democracy has always been a work in progress due to the evolving democratic process. However, we will keep getting better by continually reviewing the Electoral Act with a view to strengthening our democratic process.
“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.”