ELECTION: CISLAC, TMG fault Wike over FCT movement restriction
By KEMI KASUMU
According to the groups, movement restrictions on election days traditionally run from 7:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. They questioned the rationale for the extended timeframe, warning that the prolonged restriction has heightened public suspicion, with some Nigerians alleging it could be linked to plans to rig the elections.
The Civil Society Legislative Advocacy Centre (CISLAC) and The Monitoring Group (TMG) have criticised the restriction of movement announced ahead of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Area Council elections, describing the directive as poorly coordinated and capable of fuelling allegations of electoral manipulation.
In a statement signed by Executive Director of CISLAC and Chairman of TMG, Mallam Auwal Ibrahim Musa Rafsanjani, the organisations expressed concern over what they termed a lack of harmonisation among security and government authorities, citing conflicting timelines issued by different offices.
According to the groups, movement restrictions on election days traditionally run from 7:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. They questioned the rationale for the extended timeframe, warning that the prolonged restriction has heightened public suspicion, with some Nigerians alleging it could be linked to plans to rig the elections.
CISLAC and TMG argued that matters of national importance, particularly elections, require unified communication and strategic coordination to prevent confusion, panic, and erosion of public trust. They stressed that elections “are not a war and should not be treated as such,” adding that residents observing Ramadan should not be hindered from fulfilling their religious obligations.
The organisations noted that many residents rely on daily income to meet basic needs amid prevailing economic hardship and must be allowed to attend prayers, purchase essential items, and carry out other routine activities.
They further warned that imposing stringent restrictions without clear justification undermines confidence in the electoral process and raises suspicion among the electorate.
Earlier, the Minister of the FCT, Nyesom Wike, announced a restriction of movement across the territory from 8:00 p.m. on Friday to 6:00 p.m. on Saturday and directed security agencies to ensure full compliance.
However, the Commissioner of Police, FCT Command, , separately declared a restriction 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 said the discrepancy between the minister’s directive and the police announcement reflects a troubling lack of coordination among public institutions on issues of national interest.
The groups called on relevant authorities to align their positions, ensure clarity in public communication, and prioritise citizens’ rights while safeguarding electoral security.
