For the area councils’ election in the Federal Capital Territory, the Presidency has approved a work-free day for Abuja residents for Friday, 20th February, 2026.
Also, going by a fresh order from the Office of the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Barrister Nyesom Wike, restriction of movement in the Territory is no longer a 12-hour one as earlier announced by the Police.
It is now for 22 hours, running from 8.00 p.m. on Friday to 6.00 p.m.on Saturday. No reason was given by the minister for the extension, other than for security agencies to ensure strict compliance.
A copy of the statement from the minister’s office, by his spokesperson, Mr. Lere Olayinka, reads:
“Ahead of the Saturday, February 21 Area Council elections in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), the Minister, Nyesom Wike, has announced work free day on Friday, as well as restriction of movement from 8pm on Friday to 6pm on Saturday.
“Similarly, the President has approved the restriction of movement within the FCT from 8pm of Friday, February 20 to 6pm of Saturday, February 21, 2026. Consequently, all security agencies are directed to ensure strict compliance with this directive.”
