By Ekunkonye Junior, Abuja
The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, has declared Friday, February 20, a public holiday, and restricted movement within the FCT from 8 pm on Friday to 6 pm on Saturday, February 21, ahead of the Area Council elections.
According to a press release signed by Lere Olayinka, Senior Special Assistant, Public Communications and Social Media to the FCT Minister, the move is aimed at ensuring a peaceful and successful conduct of the elections.
The press release stated that President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has approved the restriction of movements within the FCT during the specified period. The restriction is expected to help maintain law and order, and ensure the safety of citizens and election materials.
Consequently, all security agencies have been directed to ensure strict compliance with the directive. The move is seen as a precautionary measure to prevent any form of disruption or violence during the elections.
The Area Council elections are scheduled to hold on Saturday, February 21, and residents of the FCT are expected to turn out in large numbers to exercise their franchise. The declaration of Friday as a public holiday is expected to give residents ample time to prepare and participate in the elections.
The FCT Minister’s office has urged residents to go about their normal activities on Friday, but to stay indoors during the restricted period on Saturday, except for essential services. The office also appealed to residents to cooperate with security agencies and ensure a peaceful voting process.
