Residents of the Federal Capital Territory face a 12-hour FCT movement restriction today as the Nigeria Police Force enforce tight measures for the Area Council Elections.
The Commissioner of Police, FCT Command, Miller G. Dantawaye, said movement across Abuja will be restricted from 6am to 6pm on Saturday, 21 February 2026.
In a statement signed by Police Public Relations Officer Josephine Adeh, authorities said the directive is to guarantee security and ensure the smooth conduct of the polls across the six area councils.
The FCT movement restriction applies to all residents. However, essential service providers and duly accredited election officials are exempted.
Security operatives have mounted checkpoints at key entry and exit points within Abuja to enforce compliance.
Residents have been urged to remain peaceful and law-abiding throughout the electoral process. The police also encouraged members of the public to report suspicious activities via emergency lines: 08032003913 and 08061581938.
Police authorities described the restriction as part of efforts to deliver a safe, free and credible election in the territory.
Rivers Restricts Movement for By-Election
Similarly, the Rivers State Police Command announced a movement restriction for the Rivers State Constituency by-election.
The affected constituencies are Ahoada East Constituency 2 and Khana Constituency 2
The restriction runs from 12pm to 6pm on Saturday within the affected local government areas.
Police spokesperson Grace Iringe-Koko said there will be massive deployment of security personnel to prevent electoral violence. Residents were warned against carrying weapons or loitering around polling units.
The State Commissioner of Police, Olugbenga Adepoju, cautioned political parties and supporters to shun violence or risk arrest and prosecution.
Kano Imposes 18-Hour Restriction
In Kano, the Kano State Police Command announced an 18-hour restriction ahead of by-elections in Municipal and Ungogo constituencies.
Movement of vehicles, tricycles and motorcycles is banned from 12am to 6pm on Saturday.
The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) is conducting the by-elections to replace two deceased lawmakers.
Police said only ambulances, fire service trucks, accredited election officials and observers will be allowed movement. Security outfits and party symbols are also banned at polling units.
Authorities assured residents that security agencies will remain neutral and professional throughout the electoral process.
Residents across Abuja, Rivers and Kano have been advised to plan ahead and comply fully with security directives.
