By Onyeanya Ebere Immaculata

The African Democratic Congress (ADC), has condemned the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, over his reported declaration of “war” against anti-Tinubu candidates ahead of the February 21, 2026 elections.

In a statement, ADC National Publicity Secretary Bolaji Abdullahi warned that such rhetoric could inflame political tensions and undermine democratic stability.

The party insisted that the outcome of the FCT polls would be determined by voters, not President Bola Ahmed Tinubu or any government official.

The statement described Wike’s threat as “irresponsible and dangerous” in Nigeria’s fragile political climate. ADC emphasized that sovereignty rests with the people, not with any minister or president.

The party also pledged to resist any attempt to intimidate voters or subvert the electoral process, insisting that Nigerians would exercise their franchise freely and lawfully.

By Olokuta Rofiat

The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), has concluded the training of ad-hoc staff for the 2026 Area Council elections scheduled for Saturday, February 21, 2026, in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT).

The training, held across designated centres in the FCT, was designed to equip electoral officers, presiding officers, assistant presiding officers and other personnel with guidelines for the smooth conduct of the polls.

INEC said the sessions covered accreditation procedures, handling of electoral materials, result collation and compliance with the Electoral Act, while participants were also sensitised on professionalism, neutrality and voter management.

The election will produce six Area Council chairmen and 62 councillors across the FCT’s wards. INEC reaffirmed its readiness to conduct a credible exercise and urged eligible voters to turn out peacefully.

Security agencies have also assured residents of adequate protection before, during and after the polls.

By Patrick Idowu 

The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), has fixed February 20, 2027, for the Presidential and National Assembly elections, while Governorship and State Houses of Assembly polls will hold on March 6, 2027.

INEC Chairman, Prof. Joash Ojo Amupitan, announced the dates in Abuja on Friday while formally releasing the Notice of Election and the Timetable and Schedule of Activities for the 2027 General Elections, describing the move as a constitutional obligation and “a significant milestone in Nigeria’s democratic journey.”

Amupitan said the notice was issued in line with the 1999 Constitution (as amended) and Section 28(1) of the Electoral Act, 2022, which requires publication not later than 360 days before the election date.

He also dismissed speculation over election schedules, stressing that only INEC has the authority to fix dates.

The INEC boss added that the Commission would enforce compliance with timelines for party primaries, nominations and campaigns, while expanding the use of technology, updating the voter register, strengthening security collaboration and boosting voter education ahead of the polls.