FCT polls: Police deploy over 1,000 officers, announce 12hr movement restriction

The Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Police Command has launched a large-scale security deployment ahead of the Area Council Elections scheduled for Saturday, February 21, 2026.

This operation involves over a thousand personnel drawn from a joint force of sister security agencies, including the Nigerian Army, Navy, Air Force, DSS, and the NSCDC, to ensure the safety of voters across all six area councils.

Commissioner of Police Miller G. Dantawaye has issued a strict directive to all officers to maintain absolute impartiality and professionalism.

To facilitate a peaceful voting environment, a 12-hour restriction on all non-essential movement will be enforced across the FCT on election day, beginning at 6:00 AM. Only accredited election officials and essential service providers will be permitted on the roads during this window.

Residents are urged to exercise their civic duties without fear, as security forces have been stationed at all polling units and collation centers.

The Command has also released emergency hotlines (08032003913, 08061581938) for citizens to report any suspicious activities. With over 1.6 million registered voters expected to participate, the high-security presence is aimed at preventing any disruption of the democratic process.