Federal Capital Territory Minister, Nyesom Wike, has brushed aside criticism over movement restrictions imposed on the eve of the Area Council elections, insisting that the real test of political strength in Abuja would be reflected in the final results.
Wike spoke on Saturday after touring polling areas across the nation’s capital, responding to remarks attributed to FCT Senator Ireti Kingibe, who faulted the presidential directive enforcing a curfew from 8pm on Friday ahead of the vote.
Clarifying the controversy surrounding his earlier comments on movement restrictions, the minister stressed that the directive was not his personal decision but one approved by the President.
He expressed displeasure that his remarks were challenged without proper scrutiny.
“I don’t want to join issues. At the end of the election, when the results come out, then we will know”, he said.
On the conduct of the elections, Wike noted the contrast in voter turnout between different parts of the FCT.
He observed that participation in the city centre remained characteristically low, while several satellite towns recorded what he described as “quite impressive” turnout.
According to him, reduced crowds in urban districts were typical of off-cycle elections.
Nonetheless, he maintained that the most significant achievement of the exercise was the peaceful atmosphere recorded throughout the territory.
The minister, who interacted with voters during his visits to polling units, praised the Independent National Electoral Commission for what he described as the professionalism of its officials.
He equally commended security operatives for maintaining order, adding that his office had not received any reports of unrest.
“We thank God that everywhere is peaceful,” he remarked, emphasizing that ensuring a violence-free poll remained the top priority.
