Over 1.5 Million Voters Set for FCT Council Polls as Campaigns Close
ABUJA, NIGERIA — Political campaigns for the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) council elections formally ended on Thursday as electoral authorities finalized preparations for the vote scheduled for February 21, with more than 1.5 million registered voters expected to participate.
The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) said logistics deployment and staffing arrangements have been completed across the six FCT area councils, expressing confidence in a smooth and credible exercise. The commission also reported strong Permanent Voter Card (PVC) collection rates, indicating heightened voter readiness ahead of the polls.
INEC officials noted that the PVC collection performance reflects growing public interest in local governance contests, which will determine leadership at the grassroots level, including the election of council chairpersons and councillors.
Security agencies have announced coordinated measures to maintain order during the elections, with personnel positioned to secure polling units, collation centers, and critical infrastructure. Authorities urged residents to adhere to electoral guidelines and conduct themselves peacefully throughout the voting process.
Political parties concluded rallies and outreach activities in Abuja and surrounding councils, intensifying last-minute appeals to voters on issues ranging from infrastructure and sanitation to education and primary healthcare — key responsibilities of local councils.
Observers say voter turnout and the conduct of the elections will serve as an important indicator of public confidence in Nigeria’s sub-national democratic processes, particularly within the nation’s capital.
INEC advised voters to verify their polling units, arrive early, and comply with accreditation procedures on election day.
