By Oyinkansayo Wole-Bodunde.
The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) is set to conduct its first major election under the new Electoral Act 2026 this Saturday, with the FCT Area Council elections and bye-elections in Rivers and Kano states.
The elections will test the commission’s ability to implement the new law, which includes using the Bimodal Voter Accreditation System (BVAS) and the Election Results Viewing Portal (IReV).
FCT Minister, Nyesom Wike has declared today a work-free day to facilitate voting, and movement will be restricted from 8pm tonight to 6pm tomorrow. He said, “We must show the world that we are a mature and responsible electorate, capable of conducting ourselves with dignity and decorum.”
The FCT elections involve 1,680,315 registered voters across 2,822 polling units. INEC Chairman, Prof. Joash Amupitan said that the polls are a rehearsal for the 2027 general elections.
Wike praised President Bola Tinubu’s assent to the Electoral Act Amendment Bill 2026, saying that it is a step towards improving democracy. He said, “Democracy has always been a work-in-progress due to the evolving democratic process. However, we will keep getting better by always looking into the Electoral Act with a view to strengthening our democratic process.”
Residents are urged to turn out and vote for leaders who will drive development in the FCT. Wike said, “My dear residents, I urge you to make your voice heard. Come out on Saturday, and vote for the candidates of your choice.”
