FCT Residents Head To Polls For Area Council Elections

FCT Residents Head to Polls for Area Council Elections

The Federal Capital Territory (FCT) witnessed a significant democratic exercise on Saturday, February 21, 2026, as residents turned out to elect chairmen and councillors for the six Area Councils.

Unlike the 36 states of Nigeria where such polls are referred to as local government elections, the FCT uniquely designates them as Area Council elections. 

These councils, Abaji, Abuja Municipal Area Council (AMAC), Bwari, Gwagwalada, Kuje, and Kwali, serve as the closest elected bodies to the people, directly responsible for essential services such as water, sanitation, local roads, schools, and healthcare.

Their decisions resonate deeply at the grassroots level, making these elections pivotal for everyday life.

The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) organized the polls across 2,822 polling units in 62 wards. Historical context adds weight to the moment: the last elections in February 2022 produced a split outcome, with three councils won by the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and three by the All Progressives Congress (APC).

This balance underscores the competitive nature of FCT politics. Yet, gender representation remains strikingly low, with only three women contesting for chairmanship positions across all six councils, less than five percent of the candidates. Female participation is more visible in vice-chairmanship roles, but the disparity highlights ongoing challenges in inclusivity.

President Bola Tinubu, ahead of the polls, called for peaceful and orderly conduct not only in the FCT but also in Kano and Rivers States. He emphasized that democracy thrives in an atmosphere of calm, tolerance, and mutual respect, urging voters, security agencies, and INEC officials to act responsibly. His appeal was reinforced by warnings against violence, intimidation, or rhetoric that could undermine the credibility of the elections.

Adding to the gravity of the occasion, FCT Minister Nyesom Wike declared Friday, February 20, a work-free day and imposed a restriction of movement from 8 pm Friday to 6 pm Saturday. His broadcast urged residents to seize the opportunity to shape the future of the territory, stressing the importance of orderly participation and respect for the electoral process. He also praised the recent signing of the Electoral Act Amendment Bill 2026, framing it as a step toward strengthening democratic institutions and ensuring transparency.

The atmosphere across streets, marketplaces, and community halls was charged with anticipation, as residents prepared to make their voices heard. These elections are not merely procedural; they are a test of Nigeria’s democratic resilience at the grassroots level. The hope is that the outcome will usher in leaders committed to development, peace, and prosperity in the FCT.

While results are yet to be officially declared, the day itself stands as a reminder of the enduring importance of local governance in shaping the everyday realities of citizens.