BREAKING: President Tinubu issues Strong Warning over Council Elections in Rivers, Kano
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has appealed to voters, security agencies and officials of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to ensure orderly conduct during Saturday’s elections scheduled for the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) as well as parts of Kano and Rivers states.
INEC is set to conduct area council elections across the six councils in the FCT, alongside bye-elections in Ahoada East II and Khana II state constituencies in Rivers State, and the Kano Municipal and Ungogo constituencies in Kano State.
In a statement issued on Friday by his Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, the President encouraged eligible voters to turn out peacefully and participate in the democratic process without fear.
Tinubu stressed that democracy flourishes best in an atmosphere of calm, tolerance and mutual respect, urging political parties, candidates and their supporters to avoid violence, provocative rhetoric and any actions capable of undermining the credibility of the polls.
He also warned security personnel against acts of intimidation or high-handedness, noting that their role is to safeguard lives, property and the sanctity of the ballot rather than interfere with the electoral process.
The President called on INEC to strengthen public confidence by ensuring seamless accreditation, efficient voting procedures, accurate collation and prompt transmission of results in line with the provisions of the 2026 Electoral Act.
“Fellow Nigerians, I assure you that the Federal Government under my administration will continue to support institutions responsible for delivering free, fair and credible elections,” Tinubu said.
He commended residents of the FCT, Kano and Rivers for their civic engagement, expressing confidence that the elections would reflect the will of the people and further deepen Nigeria’s democratic journey.
