Abuja: Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, has declared Friday a work-free day ahead of Saturday’s FCT area councils’ election. Wike, who disclosed this in a special broadcast on Thursday, also restricted movement from 8:00 p.m. on Friday to 6:00 p.m. on Saturday.
According to News Agency of Nigeria, the work-free day was approved by President Bola Tinubu to enable the movement of residents to their various communities to participate in the elections. Wike stated that Tinubu also approved the restriction of movement within the FCT from 8:00 p.m. on Friday to 6:00 p.m. on Saturday. He emphasized that all security agencies are directed to ensure strict compliance with this directive.
The minister urged residents of the FCT to come out en masse to vote for candidates of their choice. He highlighted the importance of the elections on February 21, where the election of either new or returning Chairmen and Councilors for the six Area Councils is an important occasion. Wike encouraged residents to approach the polls with a sense of purpose and responsibility, and to conduct themselves in an orderly and lawful manner.
He expressed confidence that the election would lead to the emergence of quality leaders who would contribute to the development, peace, and prosperity in the FCT. Wike concluded by urging everyone to work together to build a brighter future for the territory.