Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Minister, Nyesom Ezenwo Wike
FCT Minister Nyesom Wike has urged voters to support APC candidate Christopher Zakka Maikalangu in Saturday’s Area Council elections.
While speaking at an APC campaign rally in Apo District, Abuja, Wike emphasized the importance of electing leaders who cooperate with his office.
“I came here to tell you, if you do for me, I’ll do for you, if you love me, I’ll love you. Push me, I’ll push you. Let me tell you, the chairman has read out what you should do, let me tell you, do your own on Saturday and leave the other ones for me. All those politicians that tell you stories, I’m not one of them. I am a talk and do person,” Wike said.
Speaking further, the former governor of Rivers State pinpointed the importance of electing leaders who would maintain a cooperative relationship with his office.
“I told Maikalangu, that you have to vote for somebody that can talk to me and I will listen, don’t vote for somebody that when I go left, he’ll go right, if I go front, he’ll go back.”
US President Donald Trump announced on Saturday that he will impose a 15% global tariff on imports, a day after the US Supreme Court struck down his previous import taxes.
Trump initially said on Friday that he would replace the scrapped tariffs with a 10% levy, but later updated the figure to 15% via his social media platform, Truth Social.
The new tariffs are set to take effect on Tuesday, 24 February, and can only remain in place for roughly five months unless Congress grants formal approval.
The Supreme Court had ruled that Trump exceeded his authority when he imposed sweeping tariffs using a law reserved for national emergencies, stating that congressional approval is required for such import taxes.
Trump has continued to defend tariffs as a tool to boost American manufacturing, despite criticism from business groups and political opponents who argue that the costs are passed on to consumers.
This is a developing story; further details are expected.
Candidates of the All Progressives Congress (APC) and African Democratic Congress (ADC) recorded an equal number of votes at the Supreme Court Staff Quarters polling unit in Karu, Abuja, during Saturday’s Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Area Council elections.
The presiding officer, Martins Sani, announced that Christopher Maikalangu of the APC and Paul Moses of the ADC secured 12 votes each at the polling unit.
Only 32 out of the 749 registered voters cast their ballots, reflecting a low turnout.
The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) candidate received four votes, while the All Progressives Grand Alliance (APGA) scored two votes.
The Social Democratic Party (SDP) and Action Democratic Party (ADP) recorded one vote each.
Despite the low turnout, the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) said the elections have remained peaceful.
FCT Commandant Olusola Odumosu told journalists that voters conducted themselves in an orderly manner and that security deployment across the area councils helped maintain calm.
He noted that security agencies remained on standby to respond to any post-election disturbances but expressed confidence that the situation would remain peaceful.
Odumosu added that the council polls serve as a preparatory exercise ahead of the 2027 general elections, providing an opportunity for security agencies to assess and improve operational readiness.
Police authorities in Lagos State have taken into custody officers allegedly linked to a shooting incident that resulted in the death of two passersby in the Alagbado area of the state.
According to reports, the officers were chasing suspected criminals in the neighbourhood when firearms were reportedly discharged accidentally during the operation.
The development sparked concern among residents, leading to immediate action by authorities aimed at easing tensions and safeguarding public order.
While confirming the officers’ arrest in a post on her X handle, the command’s image maker, SP Abimbola Adebisi, said the action was taken on Friday.
“The officers implicated in the unfortunate incident had been taken into custody pending further investigation, ” she said.
Adebisi added that the Commissioner of Police, Mr Olohundare Jimoh, had directed a detailed and far-reaching investigation to ascertain the circumstances surrounding the shooting.
She also disclosed that more security personnel had been deployed to the community to prevent any breakdown of law and order.
According to the police spokesperson, calm has returned to the area.
She assured residents that justice would take its course and that the findings of the investigation would be made public at the appropriate time.
(DDM) – The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, has expressed concern over the low voter turnout recorded in parts of Abuja during the ongoing Area Council elections.
Wike made the remarks while touring selected polling units to assess the conduct of the exercise.
At a polling unit in Karshi, the Minister reportedly met electoral officials present without a significant number of voters on ground.
During his interaction with the officials, Wike asked about the level of participation.
Responding, an ad-hoc official of the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) disclosed that only about 10 percent of registered voters had turned out to cast their ballots at the unit.
Reacting to the update, Wike asked in surprise, “Only 10 percent?”
He further inquired about the scheduled time for vote counting, to which the corps member responded that counting was expected to begin by 2:30 p.m.
Wike reportedly expressed hope that turnout would improve before the close of voting.
The low turnout has become a recurring theme across several polling units in the Federal Capital Territory, with reports indicating reduced voter presence in various districts.
Earlier in the day, Dr. Moses Paul, candidate of the African Democratic Congress (ADC) for the Abuja Municipal Area Council (AMAC), attributed the low participation to the movement restriction directive announced ahead of the elections.
The restriction had been imposed to facilitate a smooth voting process across the FCT.
However, critics argued that the directive may have inadvertently created confusion among residents and discouraged participation.
Dr. Paul described the atmosphere as unusual, stating that in his four decades of living in AMAC, he had not witnessed such low engagement during local council elections.
He likened the situation to what he termed a “state of emergency,” suggesting that the restrictions may have been excessive.
Political analysts note that Area Council elections historically attract lower voter turnout compared to general elections, but the current figures have drawn heightened attention due to the scale of the decline reported in some areas.
As voting continues, stakeholders are closely monitoring whether participation will increase before the close of polls and how the final turnout figures may impact the legitimacy and perception of the electoral process.
Erhiatake Ibori-Suenu, the member representing Ethiope Federal Constituencies in the House of Representatives, narrowly escaped harm on Saturday after violence disrupted the All Progressives Congress (APC) congress in Ethiope West Local Government Area of Delta State.
In a statement released by the lawmaker, the congress was initially scheduled to hold at Oghara Township Stadium but was relocated to Ovade, a change she said heightened tensions among party members.
According to her account, violence broke out shortly after she arrived at the new venue, with suspected thugs allegedly attacking party members and leaving several people injured. Some of the victims were reportedly taken to nearby hospitals for treatment.
Ibori-Suenu further alleged that security concerns prevented her from accessing the congress ground, noting that threats to her safety were made. However, security personnel attached to her ensured she was not harmed.
The lawmaker, who is the daughter of former Delta State governor James Onanefe Ibori, called on her supporters to remain calm and avoid escalating the situation.
She also urged security agencies to intervene and restore order, warning that tensions remained in parts of the local government area and stressing the need for adequate security presence to prevent further breakdown of law and order.
Hezbollah has vowed to continue armed resistance following a series of Israeli airstrikes that killed eight of its fighters in eastern Lebanon, escalating tensions in an already fragile region.
In a statement on Saturday, the Iran-backed group described the strikes as a “new massacre” and declared that it had “no option” but to continue what it called national defence through armed resistance.
The Israel Defense Forces confirmed targeting Hezbollah command centres and missile infrastructure in the Baalbek area, saying the operation was aimed at neutralising militants.
Reports indicate the casualties included a commander who was attending a meeting in the Bekaa region at the time of the strike.
The escalation comes as the Government of Lebanon prepares to launch the second phase of a military plan to disarm Hezbollah in southern Lebanon a move that has heightened political tensions inside the country.
Israeli forces also reportedly struck Hamas-linked sites inside a Palestinian refugee camp in southern Lebanon, with Lebanese health officials reporting additional civilian casualties.
The renewed hostilities have strained a ceasefire brokered in November 2024.
Lebanese President Joseph Aoun condemned the airstrikes as a “blatant act of aggression,” warning they could undermine diplomatic efforts led by the United States and other international partners to stabilise the region.
Hezbollah lawmakers have urged the Lebanese government to suspend participation in the multinational ceasefire monitoring committee until Israel halts its aerial operations, accusing authorities of failing to protect the country.
Regional tensions remain high amid ongoing friction between United States and Iran, particularly over Tehran’s nuclear programme.
Hezbollah leaders warned that any attack on Iran would be treated as a direct assault on the group.
Analysts say the overlapping pressures of regional rivalries, domestic disarmament efforts, and continued cross-border hostilities make a return to lasting stability increasingly uncertain.
(DDM) – The African Democratic Congress (ADC) has secured victory at its first polling unit in the ongoing Federal Capital Territory Area Council elections, defeating the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Abuja.
The result was recorded at Polling Unit 076, Sani Abacha Estate, Wuse Zone 4, within the Abuja Municipal Area Council (AMAC).
At the polling unit, a total of 10 votes were cast, reflecting a notably low turnout.
Out of the ballots counted, ADC secured seven votes, while APC obtained two votes, and one ballot was declared invalid.
The polling unit is where Dr. Moses Paul, the ADC candidate for AMAC chairman, cast his vote earlier in the day.
The development marks an early symbolic win for the opposition coalition in the council elections.
However, the broader voting exercise across the FCT has reportedly witnessed low voter participation in several areas.
Dr. Paul attributed the reduced turnout to what he described as confusion stemming from the movement restriction directive announced ahead of the election.
The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, had earlier ordered a restriction of movement in parts of the capital to ensure a smooth electoral process.
Paul argued that the directive contributed to uncertainty among residents and discouraged voter participation.
He stated that having lived in AMAC for about 40 years, he had never witnessed such an atmosphere during local council elections.
According to him, the environment resembled what he termed a “state of emergency” over circumstances he considered unnecessary.
While commending electoral officials at his polling unit for professionalism and adherence to due process, Paul raised concerns about alleged intimidation of his party’s agents in other areas.
He specifically mentioned Takum Shara and parts of Kabusa ward, including Dogongada and Shereti, where ADC representatives were reportedly threatened.
According to him, some agents allegedly received threats of violence aimed at discouraging participation and influencing the process.
He also alleged instances of vote buying in parts of the capital, describing such practices as criminal and detrimental to democratic integrity.
Despite the reported challenges, Paul expressed confidence in the eventual outcome of the election.
He stated that the will of the people would ultimately prevail and urged voters to resist intimidation while demanding transparent and accountable leadership.
The results from other polling units are expected to determine the overall outcome of the AMAC chairmanship contest and other council positions across the FCT.
Armed bandits attacked Tangaza Town in Sokoto State late Friday night, killing Yahaya Alhassan and injuring his associate, Bello BMT.
The incident occurred near security checkpoints, including Nigeria Police Force and Nigeria Customs Service posts, raising concerns about the area’s security effectiveness.
The attack has heightened fears in the community, with residents describing chaotic scenes and questioning security deployments in the border town.
Tangaza Local Government Area shares a boundary with the Republic of Niger and has witnessed repeated incursions by armed groups.
Sokoto State is one of Nigeria’s North-West epicentres of banditry, despite ongoing military and police operation.
(DDM) – The Senator representing the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Ireti Kingibe, has publicly criticized the Minister of the FCT, Nyesom Wike, accusing him of refusing to collaborate with her in delivering governance to residents of the capital.
Speaking during an appearance on Politics Today on Channels Television, Kingibe alleged that the Minister operates in an autocratic manner and is unwilling to engage with key stakeholders in the FCT administration.
According to her, multiple attempts to foster cooperation through official correspondence have not yielded positive responses.
“If the Minister were my younger brother, he wouldn’t behave this way. I am only about governance,” Kingibe said during the interview.
She further stated that she had written several letters expressing her willingness to work with the Minister for the benefit of FCT residents but claimed that those efforts were not reciprocated.
“You can see the letters I have written to the Minister, all of them telling how I am willing to work with him; the Minister is not willing to work with anybody,” she said.
Kingibe also alleged that the Minister’s leadership style extends beyond her office, claiming he is not working harmoniously with officials of the Federal Capital Development Authority (FCDA) or mandate secretaries within the FCT administration.
“The Minister thinks governance is about what he alone thinks and what he alone wants,” she added.
In a related development, the senator expressed reservations about the movement restriction imposed ahead of the FCT Area Council elections.
Wike had earlier declared a restriction of movement from 8 p.m. Friday to 6 a.m. Saturday and announced Friday as a work-free day to allow residents prepare for the polls.
However, speaking in a separate interview on Arise Television, Kingibe argued that the curfew was unnecessary and restrictive in a democratic society.
She stated that from her observations, both security arrangements and logistics for the election were already in place.
“We the members of the different area councils followed the materials yesterday, so we know that the materials have arrived and everything seems to be on track,” she said.
Kingibe questioned the justification for the restriction, emphasizing that there were no reported security breaches warranting such action.
“Many residents have various activities and responsibilities in the evening, and such a curfew unnecessarily limits their freedom in a democratic society,” she noted.
The exchange highlights ongoing political tensions within the FCT leadership structure, particularly as the Area Council elections draw heightened attention to governance, administrative cooperation, and electoral conduct in the nation’s capital.
African Democratic Congress (ADC) campaign team at ogbaru, Anambra State
The African Democratic Congress (ADC) has secured its first polling unit win against the All Progressives Congress (APC) in the ongoing Area Council elections in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT).
At polling unit 076, Sani Abacha Estate, Wuse Zone 4, ADC candidate Dr. Moses Paul’s party secured 7 out of 10 votes, while APC garnered 2, and 1 ballot was declared invalid.
The election was marked by low voter turnout, which Paul attributed to movement restrictions announced by the FCT Minister, creating confusion.
He alleged that ADC agents were intimidated, and some were threatened with harm or death, aiming to suppress voters and influence the process.
Paul condemned vote buying, stating it was ongoing in parts of the capital city.
Despite challenges, Paul remains confident of emerging victorious, urging Nigerians to resist intimidation and demand accountable leadership.
An operative of the Department of State Services (DSS) narrowly escaped lynching after being attacked by a group of youths at a polling unit in Kuje during the ongoing Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Area Council elections.
The incident occurred at the Junior Secondary School, Kayada polling station, where more than 50 youths allegedly confronted the operative, accusing him of recording videos and taking photographs of vote-buying activities in the area.
Witnesses said the officer was manhandled for over five minutes by the angry crowd.
He was eventually released but sustained damage to his mobile phone, while his wallet was briefly seized before being recovered.
Observers noted that no security personnel were present during the assault, leaving the operative to plead for his life as the situation escalated.
Speaking shortly before leaving the scene on a motorcycle, the visibly shaken officer said the youths confiscated his accreditation card but expressed relief at escaping without serious injury.
The incident highlights growing concerns over vote-buying allegations and security lapses at some polling units during the FCT local government elections.
Three major opposition parties are missing from the ballot as the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) conducts Saturday’s by-election in Kano.
The affected parties include the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), New Nigeria Peoples Party (NNPP), and a coalition involving the African Democratic Congress (ADC).
Despite their absence, INEC said it is fully prepared to conduct a free, fair, and credible by-election in the Municipal and Ungogo state constituencies.
The off-season poll is being held to fill two vacant seats in the Kano State House of Assembly following the deaths of the former lawmakers last year.
At a recent media briefing, the Resident Electoral Commissioner in Kano, Abdul Zango, assured journalists that all political parties were given equal opportunity to nominate candidates and that the commission was ready to ensure a transparent process.
However, the final list released by INEC cleared only nine parties to contest. These include Accord (A), Action Democratic Party (ADP), Action Peoples Party (APP), African Action Congress (AAC), All Progressives Congress (APC), Allied Peoples Movement (APM), Peoples Redemption Party (PRP), Young Progressives Party (YPP), and Zenith Labour Party (ZLP).
The commission has not publicly explained why the PDP, NNPP, and ADC are absent from the ballot. The affected parties, however, allege they were unfairly excluded.
The NNPP, which is divided into multiple factions in Kano, reportedly submitted several candidates for the two constituencies. A faction of the party accused INEC of refusing to recognise its nominees and vowed to challenge the decision in court.
Similarly, the Kano State chairman of the PDP, Yusuf Kibiya, alleged that the party was given only four days to conduct primaries and submit candidate names, a timeframe he described as insufficient and contrary to the spirit of the Electoral Act.
Both parties described the development as troubling for democratic participation and said they are considering legal options.
A 19-year-old Nigerian national, Jackson Uwagboe, has been sentenced to life imprisonment in the United Kingdom for the murder of 21-year-old Robert Robinson in south-east London.
Uwagboe, of Hamilton Street, Lewisham, was convicted on 10 February 2026 at the Old Bailey for the fatal stabbing, which occurred on 6 June 2024 in Deptford.
He received a life sentence with a minimum term of 21 years, and was also convicted of robbery and possession of a bladed weapon.
Details of the attack
Robinson was stabbed 12 times, sustaining defensive wounds that suggested he attempted to shield himself.
He died at the scene on Carteret Way.
According to the Metropolitan Police, Robinson was unarmed and already wounded when Uwagboe joined the attack.
Co-defendants also jailed
Two accomplices were previously convicted and sentenced:
Ryan Wedderburn (18) — life imprisonment, minimum 23 years
Kirk Harris (19) – life imprisonment, minimum 22 years, 9 months
Flight and arrest
Following the attack, the suspects fled. Uwagboe left the UK but returned on 25 February 2025, where he was arrested at Gatwick Airport on suspicion of murder.
Police statement
Detective Inspector Neil Tovey described the assault as “brutal and sustained”, stressing that claims of self-defence were unfounded.
He added that the convictions deliver justice for Robinson’s family after enduring two trials.
(DDM) The Chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), Joash Amupitan, has provided an update on the ongoing Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Area Council elections in Abuja.
Speaking to members of the INEC press corps after visiting several polling units, Amupitan described the voting process as orderly, peaceful, and efficient in contral to challenges reported earlier.
He highlighted the performance of the BVAS, stating that the device was functioning effectively, with voter accreditation taking less than five seconds per person.
Amupitan also noted a large turnout of voters, indicating heightened public awareness of the importance of participating in the elections.
“The election is very efficient. The election is peaceful. And those are the instances of a good election,” Amupitan said.
He confirmed that security personnel were present at polling units to ensure orderly conduct, with approximately 30 officers observed at the locations he visited.
According to him, all the polling units he observed were calm and well-managed, except for a minor issue reported at a polling unit in Abaji.
Amupitan explained that security forces were promptly deployed to the affected area, and the situation was quickly brought under control, allowing voting to resume without significant delay.
He assured Nigerians that the BVAS would guarantee the integrity of the electoral process, emphasizing that only accredited voters could cast their ballots.
“Very good report from all the polling units. The atmosphere is very calm in all the polling units. The only area we had a problem was in Abaji, and immediately we deployed security, and the ugly incident was tamed, and so voting has resumed,” he said.
Ahead of the 2027 general elections, Amupitan expressed confidence that lessons from the FCT elections would help build voters’ trust in the system.
He urged Nigerians to take note of the efficiency and security of the electoral process, reinforcing the credibility of the voting technology and the efforts of INEC officials across the territory.
The chairman’s visit and report serve as an assurance that the ongoing FCT elections are being conducted professionally, with mechanisms in place to address any incidents that may arise.
Observers have commended INEC’s swift response to challenges, particularly in areas where disruptions occurred, as a measure to maintain the smooth running of the elections.
The FCT Area Council polls are considered a test of Nigeria’s preparedness for the 2027 general elections, and Amupitan’s statements reflect an emphasis on orderliness, transparency, and voter confidence across the territory.
(DDM) – Tension was reported at Polling Unit 003, East Primary School, in Abaji Area Council of the Federal Capital Territory on Saturday morning, as party agents allegedly disrupted preparations by officials of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC).
According to eyewitness accounts, the situation created uncertainty among early-arriving voters who had gathered in anticipation of the commencement of screening and voting.
INEC had scheduled accreditation and voting to begin at 8:30 a.m. across polling units in the FCT as part of the 2026 Area Council elections.
However, at the East Primary School 003 polling unit, party representatives were reportedly seen questioning certain aspects of the set-up process before voting could begin.
Sources at the venue indicated that disagreements arose over procedural issues, though specific details of the dispute were not immediately confirmed.
The disruption reportedly slowed down the arrangement of voting materials and delayed the formal opening of the polling unit.
Voters who arrived early expressed concern that the tension might affect the timely conduct of the exercise.
Security personnel were said to be present at the polling unit to maintain order and prevent escalation.
As of the time of reporting, screening and voting had not commenced at the unit due to the ongoing disagreement.
Observers note that such early-morning disputes can significantly impact voter turnout, especially if delays extend into the late morning hours.
The FCT Area Council elections are crucial in determining leadership across the six area councils within Abuja, including Abaji, where grassroots governance decisions directly affect community development and local administration.
INEC has consistently reiterated its commitment to conducting free, fair, and credible elections, emphasizing strict adherence to electoral guidelines and procedures.
Stakeholders are awaiting further clarification from election officials regarding the cause of the disruption and the steps being taken to resolve it.
Authorities are expected to provide updates as the situation develops and as efforts continue to restore normal voting activities at the affected polling unit.
United States President Donald Trump has proposed a sweeping new immigration rule that could suspend work permits for asylum seekers for extended periods, marking one of the most significant changes to asylum-related employment authorisation in decades.
The proposal, released Friday by the U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS), would halt the issuance of work permits for new asylum applicants until average processing times for certain asylum claims fall to 180 days or less.
Based on the current backlog, DHS estimates it could take anywhere from 14 to 173 years to reach that benchmark.
However, the department noted that administrative reforms and efficiency improvements could potentially shorten the timeline.
In a statement, DHS said the rule, if finalised, would reduce incentives for filing “frivolous, fraudulent, or otherwise meritless” asylum claims.
The agency added that employment authorisation is not an entitlement but is granted at the discretion of the DHS secretary.
Under the proposal, migrants who entered the United States unlawfully would generally be barred from obtaining new work permits or renewing existing ones.
Limited exceptions would apply to individuals who notified border authorities within 48 hours of entry that they feared persecution, torture, or had another urgent reason for crossing unlawfully.
The measure forms part of a broader effort by the Trump administration to tighten both legal and illegal immigration controls.
Trump, who returned to office in 2025, campaigned on a platform portraying immigrants and asylum seekers as criminals and economic burdens claims critics argue are not supported by evidence.
Immigrant advocacy organisations and several Democratic lawmakers have condemned the proposal, saying it undermines longstanding U.S. and international asylum protections.
The rule will be open to public comment for 60 days after its formal publication in the Federal Register on Monday.
The regulatory process could take months or years before the measure is finalised, and legal challenges are widely expected
(DDM) – Voting activities at the AU Suleman 003 polling unit in Abaji Area Council of the Federal Capital Territory were abruptly disrupted following the reported disappearance of ballot papers, leaving voters confused and agitated.
According to reports from the scene, the election process had been progressing peacefully before tensions escalated over the sudden incident.
Eyewitness accounts indicate that an unidentified individual, accompanied by security personnel, entered the polling unit without presenting proper identification.
A Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) agent at the polling unit, Bala Abubakar Hassan, narrated the sequence of events.
“Our election was moving successfully here,” Hassan said. “Unfortunately, someone came in with security personnel at his back. I asked him, please, who are you? He said he’s a local government agent but could not provide any identification. I told him to leave. That’s where the crisis occurred.”
According to Hassan, the situation worsened when security operatives allegedly deployed tear gas, causing panic among voters and party agents at the venue.
As people scattered to avoid the effects of the gas, confusion reportedly ensued, and the ballot papers were said to have gone missing in the chaos.
“Everyone was running, and that’s where the ballot paper was missing,” Hassan added.
Following the disruption, voting at the polling unit was suspended, and tensions remained high as voters expressed frustration over the interruption.
Party representatives at the venue reportedly traded accusations, with suspicions directed at members of both the PDP and the Young Progressives Party (YPP).
As of the time of reporting, authorities had not confirmed the exact circumstances surrounding the disappearance of the ballot papers.
There was also no official statement clarifying whether the ballot papers were taken, misplaced, or secured elsewhere during the disturbance.
Election officials are yet to announce a timeline for the resumption of voting at the affected polling unit.
The incident has added to concerns about security and electoral integrity in parts of the FCT during the ongoing Area Council elections.
Stakeholders are expected to await clarification from the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), which is responsible for supervising and conducting the polls.
Observers say the prompt resolution of the situation will be critical in restoring confidence among voters and ensuring that the process remains credible and transparent.
(DDM) – Large numbers of young residents across the Federal Capital Territory turned away from polling units on Saturday, choosing instead to gather on football pitches during the Area Council elections.
The development was observed in several parts of Abuja as voting commenced across the six area councils.
Despite the importance of the grassroots elections, many youths appeared largely indifferent to the electoral process, opting for recreational activities while accreditation and voting were ongoing nearby.
In Lugbe, Gwarinpa, and Gwagwalada, groups of young men converted open spaces and quiet streets into makeshift football fields.
Cheers from spectators and players echoed through neighborhoods where electoral officials were expected to conduct voting exercises.
Similar scenes were reported in Kuje and along the busy Airport Road, where informal football matches drew more visible participation than nearby polling units.
Observers noted that the usual atmosphere of election-day engagement in some communities was replaced by sporting excitement and social gatherings.
The situation unfolded despite an earlier directive from the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, who had announced a restriction of movement to facilitate a smooth voting process.
The movement restriction was intended to limit vehicular traffic and ensure residents remained within their designated voting areas throughout the exercise.
However, reports indicated that enforcement of the order appeared uneven across various districts.
Some taxi drivers and private motorists were seen moving freely in certain parts of the capital, suggesting partial compliance with the directive.
Political analysts say youth participation remains a recurring concern in local government elections across Nigeria.
Area Council elections, though crucial for grassroots governance, often attract lower voter turnout compared to presidential or gubernatorial contests.
The apparent preference for recreational engagement over civic participation in parts of Abuja highlights ongoing debates about political awareness and youth mobilization.
Stakeholders argue that increased civic education and engagement strategies may be required to encourage stronger youth involvement in local governance processes.
As voting continued across the FCT, attention remained focused on turnout figures and the overall conduct of the elections under the supervision of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC).
The outcome of the elections will determine leadership across the FCT’s six area councils, shaping local administration and development priorities in the nation’s capital.
(DDM)– The ruling All Progressives Congress has activated a National Situation Room to monitor developments during the ongoing Federal Capital Territory Area Council elections.
The initiative is being coordinated from the party’s National Secretariat, where members of its monitoring team are reportedly collating and reviewing field reports.
According to party sources, the Situation Room is designed to receive real-time updates from operatives deployed across polling units within the FCT.
The reports are said to include information on voting procedures, logistics, security concerns, and any incidents that may arise during the electoral process.
The All Progressives Congress (APC) stated that its field operatives are working alongside a dedicated monitoring application to transmit verified updates directly to the National Secretariat.
Party officials indicated that the system is intended to ensure prompt documentation and response to issues that may affect the credibility or smooth conduct of the polls.
Hotlines were also released to members of the public and party stakeholders to facilitate the reporting of incidents.
The numbers provided by the party are 09024004490 and 08066889466.
Political parties in Nigeria often establish situation rooms during major elections as part of internal oversight mechanisms.
Such platforms typically serve as coordination centres for legal teams, data analysts, and political strategists monitoring the voting and collation process.
The FCT Area Council elections are considered significant in shaping grassroots governance across the six area councils within Abuja.
Observers note that the establishment of monitoring structures by political parties reflects the high level of interest and competition surrounding the elections.
As voting continues across the territory, attention remains on reports from polling units and the official updates expected from the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), which is responsible for conducting and announcing the results of the polls.
(DDM) – Fresh controversy has emerged ahead of the Federal Capital Territory Area Council elections following the reported withdrawal of two Peoples Democratic Party candidates from their respective races.
According to reports, the development has raised concerns among political observers about the strength of opposition participation in the polls.
The candidates reportedly involved are Julius Adamu, who was contesting for the Bwari Area Council, and Zadna Dantani, who was running for the Abuja Municipal Area Council (AMAC) under the PDP platform.
Adamu was said to have withdrawn from the contest and pledged support for Joshua Ishaku Musa of the All Progressives Congress.
Shortly afterward, Dantani also allegedly stepped down from the AMAC race.
Both candidates were reported to have cited what they described as “fatherly advice” from the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, as a factor influencing their decisions.
The reported withdrawals have drawn reactions from civil society and election observers.
Executive Director of YIAGA Africa, Samson Itodo, weighed in on the matter, questioning the seriousness of candidates who step down shortly before elections.
Itodo reportedly argued that individuals who genuinely believe in their chances of winning would not abandon their campaigns at the final stage of the electoral process.
He further suggested that such last-minute withdrawals may indicate that the candidates were not strong contenders from the outset.
On the legal implications, Itodo reportedly noted that the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) would not reprint ballot papers to reflect the withdrawals, given the proximity to election day.
According to him, any votes cast for the withdrawn candidates would still be counted for the political party as printed on the ballot, but would not translate into a valid candidacy if the party effectively has no standing candidate in the race.
He warned that voters who cast ballots for such withdrawn candidates could effectively be wasting their votes because the votes may not count toward any valid candidate in the contest.
The situation has sparked debate about internal party discipline, political strategy, and the preparedness of opposition parties in the FCT elections.
Analysts note that the development may influence voter perception and turnout, especially among PDP supporters who may now be uncertain about the party’s standing in the affected area councils.
As the elections proceed, attention remains on how electoral authorities and political parties will address the implications of the withdrawals and whether further clarifications will be issued to voters.
(DDM) – Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, has generated widespread reactions online following remarks he made ahead of the ongoing Area Council elections.
Wike, who is also identified as a factional leader within the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), was seen in a viral video addressing supporters of the All Progressives Congress (APC) prior to Saturday’s polls.
During his interaction with party members, the former Rivers State governor expressed confidence in the anticipated victory of the APC in the council elections.
In the video circulating on social media platforms, Wike urged supporters to focus on casting their votes while assuring them that he would handle the rest.
“The Chairman has read out what you should do. Do your own on Saturday and leave the other one for me,” Wike stated while addressing the gathering.
He further dismissed criticisms from other politicians, saying, “All those politicians wey dey come talk story, I no dey there.”
Wike also emphasized the importance of electing candidates who could effectively engage with him in his current capacity as FCT Minister.
“You have to vote for somebody who can talk to me and I will listen,” he added.
The comments have since sparked mixed reactions across political circles and social media platforms, with supporters interpreting his remarks as a show of confidence and strategic leadership, while critics argue that the statement raises concerns about neutrality and the integrity of the electoral process.
Observers note that Wike’s influence within the FCT political landscape has been a subject of discussion since his appointment as Minister.
The FCT Area Council elections are considered significant in shaping grassroots governance within Abuja’s six area councils.
Political analysts suggest that statements made by influential figures during election periods often attract scrutiny, particularly where perceptions of fairness, independence of electoral institutions, and security oversight are involved.
As of the time of reporting, there has been no official clarification from Wike’s office regarding interpretations of the comment.
The elections continue across the FCT amid heightened public interest, with stakeholders closely monitoring developments and awaiting official results from the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC).
(DDM) – Residents of the Federal Capital Territory defied the movement restriction order announced ahead of the Area Council elections, as vehicular and human activities continued across several parts of Abuja on Saturday morning.
The restriction had been linked to directives from the FCT Minister, Nyesom Wike, and security agencies, who earlier announced measures aimed at ensuring order during the polls.
Despite the directive, commercial vehicles, tricycles, and motorcycles were seen transporting passengers freely across various districts within the capital city.
At Airport Road, Jikwoyi, Nyanya, Kuje, Gwagwalada, and parts of the Abuja Municipal Area Council (AMAC), traffic moved without noticeable barricades or checkpoints hindering motorists.
Commuters and transport operators appeared to go about their normal routines, with only minimal signs of enforcement in some locations.
However, along the Kubwa-Nyanya highway, security personnel were observed blocking sections of the road with trucks, compelling motorists to maneuver through a single available lane while navigating around the military presence.
The mixed enforcement created contrasting scenes across the city, with some routes experiencing uninterrupted movement and others subject to partial restrictions.
While traffic flowed in many areas, most businesses remained closed in compliance with the electoral exercise.
Shops were largely locked, and commercial centers appeared quiet, although a few shop owners, laundry operators, and Point of Sale service providers operated discreetly along parts of Airport Road.
At about 8:10 a.m., electoral materials were being transported from the Kuje central distribution centre located at Science Primary School to various polling units within the area council.
In Aleyita, along Airport Road, polling units appeared largely deserted in the early hours, with only a limited presence of security personnel.
Officials of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) had yet to arrive at some polling units as of that time.
By approximately 8:26 a.m., only five individuals were present at the polling centre in Aleyita, including two political party agents.
One voter, Mr. Andrew James, expressed disappointment over the delay, stating that he arrived at his polling unit as early as 7:00 a.m. but met no INEC officials on ground to commence accreditation and voting.
He further noted that all six polling units within the community had been collapsed into LEA Primary School in Aleyita for convenience.
At Pilot Science Primary School in Kwali, voting had not begun as of 8:33 a.m., though INEC officials were reportedly briefing party agents on election guidelines in preparation for the process.
The early developments reflect logistical and compliance challenges as the FCT Area Council elections unfold, with authorities expected to provide further updates as the day progresses.
(DDM) – The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) did not meet its scheduled 8:30 a.m. commencement time for voting in parts of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Area Council elections on Saturday, as sensitive election materials were still at the Registration Area Centre (RAC) in Lugbe several minutes before 9:00 a.m.
INEC had earlier assured residents and stakeholders that voting would begin promptly at 8:30 a.m. across polling units in the FCT. However, observations from Lugbe indicated that electoral officials were yet to dispatch sensitive materials, including ballot papers and result sheets, to designated polling units as of the expected start time.
At the Lugbe RAC Centre located at LEA Primary School, security personnel, including officers of the Nigeria Police Force and other agencies assigned to election duties, were seen organizing themselves and coordinating logistics. The delay in the movement of materials raised concerns among voters who had arrived early in anticipation of participating in the electoral process.
A video captured at the RAC showed the Supervisor of the Lugbe centre explaining that officials were still working to finalize arrangements to ensure the safe and orderly distribution of sensitive materials. According to him, steps were being taken to address logistical challenges and guarantee that materials reach the appropriate polling units securely.
As of the time of reporting, there were indications that voting might not commence before 10:00 a.m. in several polling units within the Lugbe area, contrary to the 8:30 a.m. timeline previously communicated by the electoral body. The delay has the potential to disrupt the voting schedule, particularly if the late arrival of materials leads to extended accreditation and voting hours.
Residents expressed mixed reactions to the development. While some voters remained patient and hopeful that the process would soon begin, others voiced frustration over the delay, emphasizing the importance of timely commencement to ensure credibility and efficiency in the electoral process.
The FCT Area Council elections are considered significant in shaping local governance within the nation’s capital territory. As such, adherence to announced timelines is often viewed as a measure of the preparedness and organizational capacity of the electoral body.
INEC had earlier reiterated its commitment to conducting a free, fair, and credible election. However, the early morning delay in Lugbe underscores the logistical complexities often associated with large-scale electoral exercises.
As the day progresses, attention remains focused on whether the situation will be promptly resolved and whether similar delays are occurring in other parts of the FCT. INEC is yet to release an official statement explaining the cause of the setback at the Lugbe RAC Centre.
A High Court in Uyo, Akwa Ibom State, has sentenced a resident pastor, Emmanuel Umoh, to death by hanging for the murder of his landlord, Gabriel Bassey.
Justice Gabriel Ette delivered the judgment after finding Umoh, the resident pastor of Living Faith Church Chapel, Ifa Ikot Ubo–Ifa Ikot Okpon branch, guilty of killing Bassey, a 500-level Civil Engineering student of University of Uyo.
The court heard that the victim relocated to his late mother’s property in Ifa Ikot Ubo to safeguard the estate and live closer to school. Before her death in December 2019, his mother had established a nursery school on the premises.
Evidence showed that Bassey lived in a two-bedroom flat within the compound alongside his younger brother, while a hall originally built for school use was later rented to the church for ₦150,000 annually with the consent of his father, a retired school principal. The church was allowed to begin using the hall before completing payment, and Umoh was later posted there as the pioneer resident pastor.
The prosecution told the court that on December 21, 2020, the defendant was seen entering the compound, after which neighbours heard screams of “Jesus” from inside the premises. He later emerged wearing a white garment stained with blood, claiming he had fallen while attempting to hang a banner.
Bassey was not seen alive again. His decomposing body was discovered on December 26, 2020, wrapped in a mat inside his room with multiple cuts, while a butcher’s knife was found beside him.
Umoh, who was the last person seen with the victim and could not explain the bloodstains, was arrested and charged with murder. He pleaded not guilty when arraigned on December 6, 2021.
During the trial, the prosecution called six witnesses, including the deceased’s father, who testified that the pastor had earlier requested permission to store church property in the flat due to insecurity at the hall. After the victim provided access, household items began to go missing, leading to suspicion. The defendant later claimed he had lost the spare key. After the locks were changed, no further items were reported missing.
Tensions later developed between the two men over rent payments and repair funds for the hall.
Delivering judgment that lasted over two hours, Justice Ette described the case as “very sympathetic,” highlighting the late mother’s efforts to develop the property for educational purposes.
He condemned the act, noting the irony of a religious leader taking a life within church premises and ruled that the prosecution had proved its case beyond reasonable doubt.
“Life is sacred,” the judge stated, adding that those who betray public trust pose a danger to society.
He subsequently sentenced the pastor to death by hanging.
