Wike hails peaceful FCT council polls, laments low voter turnout

Nyesom Wike, the minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), has commended residents for the orderly conduct recorded during the FCT area council elections, describing the exercise as largely peaceful despite low voter turnout in parts of the capital.

Wike, who spoke in Abuja on Saturday after monitoring the polls in Garki, Karu Chief’s Palace, Karshi, Kabusa and Ketti, expressed satisfaction with the overall conduct of the elections. He observed that voter participation in the city centre was significantly low, although turnout in several satellite communities was relatively encouraging.

The minister noted that voter apathy in sections of the capital remains a recurring challenge. However, he emphasised that the absence of violence across polling units marked a major improvement compared with previous exercises.

“It is regrettable that turnout was low in some areas, particularly within the city centre, but the most important thing is that the process was peaceful. There were no incidents of ballot box snatching or disruptions,” he said.

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Wike also commended security agencies for maintaining order throughout the exercise, noting that unlike previous elections where isolated disturbances were reported, no such incidents had occurred. He further praised the electoral body for what he described as a commendable performance.

Addressing criticism by FCT Senator Ireti Kingibe over the restriction of movement between Friday evening and Saturday evening, Wike dismissed claims that he imposed a curfew. Kingibe had alleged that the directive amounted to an unlawful restriction on residents.

The minister clarified that the temporary restriction, which lasted from 8 p.m. on Friday to 6 p.m. on Saturday, was approved by President Bola Tinubu and implemented solely to ensure a smooth and secure electoral process. He reiterated that the measure was not a curfew and declined further comment on the controversy.

As collation of results continues, Wike urged residents to sustain the peaceful conduct demonstrated during the elections.