By Abdullahi Alhassan, Kaduna.
The Civil Society Legislative Advocacy Centre (CISLAC) and Transition Monitoring Group (TMG) have condemned the restriction of movement announced ahead of the Area Council elections in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), describing the decision as poorly coordinated, contrary to the national interest, and capable of fueling allegations of electoral manipulation.
In a statement signed by Auwal Musa Rafsanjani, Executive Director of CISLAC and Chairman of TMG, the groups expressed concern over what they described as a lack of harmonization among security and government authorities, noting the conflicting timelines issued by different offices.
They stated that, traditionally, movement restrictions on Election Day run from 7:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m., and questioned the rationale behind the extended timeframe.
The groups added that the prolonged restriction has heightened public suspicion, with some Nigerians alleging that the directive could be linked to a potential electoral rigging agenda.
They argued that issues of national importance, particularly elections, require unified communication and strategic coordination to avoid confusion, panic, and loss of public trust.
CISLAC and TMG stated that elections are not a war and should not be treated as such. The organisations stressed that citizens observing Ramadan must not be prevented from carrying out their religious obligations.
According to the groups, residents need the freedom to perform prayers, purchase essential items, and attend to other basic needs, especially amid the prevailing economic hardship in the country, where many people cannot afford to stock up on supplies and must go out daily to work and earn money before purchasing food items.
The organisations further warned that imposing stringent restrictions without clear justification raises suspicion and undermines confidence in the electoral process.
Earlier, the FCT Minister, Nyesom Wike, declared a restriction of movement across the FCT from 8:00 p.m. on Friday to 6:00 p.m. on Saturday, directing security agencies to ensure full compliance.
However, the Commissioner of Police, FCT Command, Miller G. Dantawaye, announced a separate restriction of movement from 6:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. on Saturday, February 21, 2026, in view of the scheduled Area Council elections.
CISLAC and TMG noted that the discrepancy between the minister’s directive and the police announcement reflects a troubling lack of coordination and unity among public institutions on matters of national interest.
They called on relevant authorities to align their positions, ensure clarity in public communication, and prioritise citizens’ rights while maintaining electoral security.
