Reported by: Ijeoma G | Edited by: Gabriel Osa
The African Democratic Congress has raised objections to the imposition of a curfew in Abuja ahead of Saturday’s area council elections, describing the measure as premature and potentially detrimental to voter participation.
In a statement issued on the eve of the polls, the party expressed concern over the decision by the Federal Capital Territory authorities to restrict movement from 8 p.m. on Friday. The curfew was announced under the supervision of the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, who has oversight responsibility for administrative matters in Abuja.
The ADC argued that while limited movement restrictions on election day can be justified on security grounds, such measures traditionally take effect from midnight on the day of voting. It contended that the earlier commencement could create logistical challenges for residents and may discourage participation.
Elections in the Federal Capital Territory are conducted under the supervision of the Independent National Electoral Commission, which coordinates with security agencies to ensure orderly conduct. Movement restrictions during elections are typically designed to reduce the risk of violence, prevent the movement of armed groups, and limit the transportation of illicit materials.
However, the ADC maintained that any security arrangement must strike a balance between public safety and the protection of fundamental democratic rights. The party stated that eligible voters should be able to travel freely to polling units, remain for the duration of the voting process, and return home without facing undue obstruction.
Political analysts note that security-related movement bans have become a recurring feature of elections in several Nigerian states, particularly in areas where past polls have witnessed tension. The Federal Capital Territory, comprising six area councils, is considered politically significant due to its symbolic status as the nation’s capital and the competitive presence of multiple parties.
While the FCT Administration has not publicly detailed the specific security rationale behind the timing of the curfew, government officials have in previous elections emphasized the need to preempt potential unrest. Supporters of movement restrictions argue that advance measures can deter last-minute mobilization of disruptive elements.
The ADC, however, interpreted the decision as an attempt to influence turnout dynamics. It suggested that imposing restrictions earlier than customary practice could create confusion among voters, particularly those who may need to travel within or into the city ahead of the polls.
Civil society observers have historically called for clarity and timely communication regarding election-day logistics. They stress that transparent guidelines on movement restrictions, polling hours and security arrangements are critical to maintaining public trust.
Under Nigeria’s electoral framework, security agencies operate in support of the electoral commission, with mandates to maintain peace and protect electoral materials and personnel. The scope and timing of movement restrictions are generally determined through consultations between election managers and security authorities.
As the area council elections approach, attention has shifted to whether the curfew will have measurable effects on turnout. Abuja’s electorate includes civil servants, private sector workers and residents from diverse socio-economic backgrounds, many of whom rely on mobility across districts.
The ADC’s protest reflects broader debates over how to safeguard elections without constraining democratic freedoms. Analysts emphasize that perceptions of fairness can be as important as actual security conditions in determining public confidence in electoral outcomes.
For now, residents of the Federal Capital Territory await further clarification on enforcement modalities and exemptions, if any, under the curfew order. The conduct of Saturday’s polls will likely shape political narratives in the capital and influence assessments of administrative neutrality in the run-up to future elections.
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