The Federal Capital Territory Police Command has announced the deployment of thousands of security personnel across Abuja ahead of the February 21, 2026 Area Council Elections, as part of efforts to ensure a peaceful and credible electoral process.
The Police Public Relations Officer of the Command, SP Josephine Adeh, disclosed this in a statement issued on Wednesday, noting that the large-scale deployment forms part of a comprehensive operational strategy involving collaboration with sister security agencies, including the Nigeria Army, Nigeria Air Force, Nigeria Navy, Department of State Services (DSS), and the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC).
According to the Commissioner of Police, Miller G. Dantawaye, all deployed officers have been directed to maintain professionalism and provide adequate security coverage at polling units and collation centres across the Federal Capital Territory. He emphasized the need for officers to remain vigilant, impartial, and courteous while respecting the rights of citizens throughout the election period.
The Command also announced a restriction of movement across the FCT between 6:00 a.m. and 6:00 p.m. on Saturday, February 21, 2026. The restriction, however, will exempt essential service providers and duly accredited election officials.
Residents of the FCT were urged to cooperate fully with security personnel and comply with all operational guidelines to ensure a smooth electoral exercise. The police further encouraged eligible voters to come out peacefully to exercise their civic responsibility without fear, assuring that adequate security arrangements have been put in place.
Members of the public were also advised to remain vigilant and promptly report suspicious activities through the designated emergency lines provided by the Command.
