Abuja-FCT, Local Council Elections Set For Saturday February 12, 2022.

Local Council Elections in the FCT Abuja.

DATE / TIME

The Abuja Area Council elections scheduled for Saturday, February 12, 2022.

WHERE

Across the six Area Councils in the FCT Abuja.

WHAT

The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has expressed its readiness for the Federal Capital Territory, Abuja Area Council elections scheduled for Saturday, 12 February 2022.

Sources said that the commission has identified some possible hot spots within its area of coverage for the election and has started making preparations, in collaboration with security agencies to address the threats.

It was gathered that the Commission has also been evaluating the risk to the election using the Election Violence Mitigation and Advocacy Tool (EVMAT).

The aim is to identify early warning signals that could assist the security agencies and other stakeholders in devising and deploying appropriate mitigation strategies. Among other areas of concern, the Commission focused on threats specific to geographical locations, the proliferation of small arms and light weapons, the issue of hard drugs, the presence of insurgents and armed groups, intra and inter-party conflicts, and incidents of hate speech.

IMPACT:

There is a likelihood of restrictions of vehicular movements by the FCT Police Command ahead of the Council Elections in the FCT Abuja. The restrictions might take effect from midnight on Friday, February 11 and will last till 6pm on Saturday, February 12, 2022. All entries and exits to borders states will be shut down accordingly.

There is an expectation for increased Government security forces presence to mitigate potential violence. 

ADVICE

.  Comply with the vehicular movement restriction on days/time as indicated. 

.  Avoid large gatherings

.  Leave an area immediately you noticed any sign of unrest around you.

.  Avoid open-air political discussion/debate

.  Monitor election results/developments through local media.

.  Respect and follow the rule of law and the guidance issued by security elements. 

.  Ensure contact lists are updated and carried with you. 

.  If stopped at a vehicle checkpoint, travellers are advised to comply with security forces; display identity cards or photocopies of passports, visas and other identification documents; and not drive away until instructed to do so.

Stay safe.