The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, has expressed satisfaction with the conduct of the ongoing Area Council elections across Abuja, describing the process as peaceful despite pockets of low voter participation.
After touring several polling units and engaging with residents on Saturday, Wike said security agencies had ensured a calm environment throughout the exercise. However, he acknowledged that turnout in parts of the city centre was below expectations.
“We thank God that everywhere is peaceful. The challenge we have is low voter turnout, particularly in the city centre, and that has always been the case. But going round to some of the satellite towns, we could see that the turnout is quite impressive.
“It is unfortunate in the city that you have a very low turnout, but in an off-cycle election like this, it is always the case. What is important is that the election is peaceful, no violence,” he said.
He commended security personnel for maintaining order, adding: “Security agents have done their jobs very well, and we do not have reports of violence.”
The minister also praised the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) for the professionalism of its staff and expressed confidence in the management of the electoral process.
Addressing criticism reportedly made by Senator Ireti Kingibe, who described the movement restriction as “authoritarian, ill-considered, and unacceptable in a democratic society,” Wike clarified that he did not impose a curfew.
“It is very unfortunate. She should have read my statement carefully. I never imposed a curfew. I said Mr President has said from 8 pm on Friday to 6 pm on Saturday, that movement will be restricted, and this is not the first time,” he said.
He emphasised that the directive on movement restriction was not a personal decision but one taken in line with broader security considerations.
More than 1.5 million registered voters are eligible to participate in the elections across the six area councils — Abuja Municipal Area Council, Bwari, Gwagwalada, Kuje, Abaji and Kwali. A total of 68 elective offices are being contested, comprising six chairmanship seats and 62 councillorship positions.
