Federal Capital Territory Minister Nyesom Wike has brushed aside criticisms surrounding the movement restrictions imposed on the eve of the Area Council elections, insisting that the true measure of political relevance in the capital will be reflected in the final results.
Speaking on Saturday after observing the conduct of the elections in parts of Abuja, Wike responded to remarks attributed to FCT Senator Ireti Kingibe, who had faulted the presidential directive enforcing a curfew across the territory from 8pm on Friday ahead of the polls.
Addressing the controversy, the minister clarified that the restriction on movement from Friday evening through Saturday was not a unilateral action taken by him but was carried out with the approval of the President. He explained that the directive formed part of broader security measures designed to safeguard the electoral process.
Wike expressed dissatisfaction that his earlier explanations had not been thoroughly considered before being criticised. “I don’t want to join issues. At the end of the election, when the results come out, then we will know”, he said, suggesting that the outcome of the vote would ultimately settle political debates.
Evaluating the overall conduct of the exercise, the minister noted a pattern he described as consistent with previous elections. He observed that voter participation in the city centre appeared relatively low, a trend he said was not unusual. In contrast, he pointed to what he called a “quite impressive” turnout in several satellite communities within the territory.
He attributed the lower numbers in urban districts to the dynamics often associated with off-cycle elections but maintained that the key indicator of success was the peaceful nature of the polls.
Wike, who interacted with voters at various locations during his inspection tour, commended the Independent National Electoral Commission for what he described as the professionalism demonstrated by its staff throughout the exercise.
He also applauded the efforts of security agencies deployed across the FCT, noting that there had been no reports of disturbances brought to his attention. “We thank God that everywhere is peaceful,” he remarked, emphasizing that ensuring a calm and orderly electoral process had been the foremost objective.
What you should know
FCT Minister Nyesom Wike has defended the election-eve movement restrictions imposed in Abuja, stating that they were approved by the President and aimed at ensuring security.
He dismissed criticisms from Senator Ireti Kingibe and maintained that the election results would ultimately determine political influence in the territory.
Wike also praised INEC and security agencies for conducting a peaceful exercise, noting lower turnout in the city centre but stronger participation in satellite towns.
