FCT Election : Wike Declares Friday Work-Free Day

The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Dr Nyesom Wike, has declared Friday, February 20, 2026, a work-free day ahead of the FCT Area Council elections scheduled for Saturday, February 21.

Wike also announced a restriction of movement across the FCT from 8:00pm on Friday, February 20, to 6:00pm on Saturday, February 21, 2026.

The Minister made the announcement in a special broadcast on national television and radio stations on Thursday, urging residents to come out in large numbers to vote for candidates of their choice.

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 Councilors 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.”

Wike further appealed to residents to conduct themselves peacefully and responsibly during the exercise.

“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 said.

Announcing the directives, the Minister stated, “At this juncture, with the approval of the President Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, 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 8pm of Friday, February 20 to 6pm of Saturday, February 21, 2026.

Consequently, all security agencies are directed to ensure strict compliance with this directive,” he added.

Wike expressed appreciation to President Bola Ahmed 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.

He urged residents to make their voices heard at the polls and prayed that the elections would produce quality leaders who would contribute meaningfully to development, peace and prosperity in the FCT.

Remi Johnson, Edited By Grace Namiji