BY GODWIN OBI
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has called for peaceful and orderly conduct ahead of Saturday’s elections in the Federal Capital Territory, Kano State, and Rivers State, urging voters to participate without fear.
In a statement issued Friday by his spokesperson, Bayo Onanuga, the President emphasised that democracy flourishes best in an atmosphere of calm, tolerance, and mutual respect.
“President Tinubu urged all eligible voters to come out and vote without fear, stressing that the democratic process thrives best in an environment of peace and civility,” the statement read.
The President appealed to voters, security personnel, and officials of the Independent National Electoral Commission to discharge their responsibilities with professionalism and restraint.
He cautioned security agencies against high-handedness, intimidation, or any conduct capable of disenfranchising voters or eroding public trust, noting that their primary duty is to safeguard lives and property while protecting the integrity of the ballot.
President Tinubu also charged INEC to reinforce voter confidence by ensuring timely accreditation, seamless voting procedures, accurate collation, and prompt transmission of results in line with the Electoral Act 2026.
Reaffirming his administration’s commitment to credible elections, the President expressed confidence that the outcome of the polls would reflect the will of the people and further strengthen Nigeria’s democratic institutions.
INEC is set to conduct elections across the six area councils of the FCT, alongside bye-elections in Ahoada East II and Khana II State constituencies in Rivers State, and in Kano Municipal and Ungogo constituencies in Kano State.
FCT Declares Work-Free Day, Restricts Movemen
Meanwhile, the FCT Minister, Nyesom Wike, has declared Friday a work-free day and announced a restriction of movement from 8:00 p.m. on Friday to 6:00 p.m. on Saturday to facilitate the conduct of the FCT Area Council elections.
In a special broadcast on national television and radio, Wike urged residents to turn out en masse and vote responsibly.
“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,” he said.
The minister stated that the directives were approved by President Tinubu, adding that security agencies had been instructed to ensure strict compliance.
Wike commended the President for signing the Electoral Act Amendment Bill 2026 into law, describing it as a demonstration of commitment to free, fair, and transparent elections.
He expressed optimism that the polls would usher in quality leadership capable of advancing development, peace, and prosperity across the FCT.
“Together, let us build a brighter future for ourselves, our children, and our territory,” Wike added.
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