By Joy Onu
The FCT Police Command has announced the deployment of thousands of security personnel across the Federal Capital Territory ahead of the February 21, 2026 Area Council elections.
The disclosure was made in a press statement issued on Tuesday in Abuja by the Police Public Relations Officer, Josephine Adeh, who said the deployment forms part of a comprehensive operational order aimed at guaranteeing a peaceful, free, and credible electoral process.
According to the Command, the security arrangement involves a joint operation with sister agencies, including the Nigerian Army, Nigerian Air Force, Nigerian Navy, Department of State Services, and the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps, among others.
Commissioner of Police, Miller G. Dantawaye, charged all deployed officers to maintain the highest level of professionalism while ensuring adequate security at polling units and collation centres across the FCT. He stressed that officers must remain vigilant, impartial, and courteous in the discharge of their duties, while respecting the rights of all citizens.
The Police Command also announced a restriction of movement across the FCT from 6:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. on Friday, February 21, 2026, with exemptions for essential service providers and accredited election officials. Residents were urged to cooperate fully with security personnel and comply with all security guidelines during the period.
Reassuring residents, the Command encouraged eligible voters to come out peacefully and exercise their civic responsibility without fear, noting that adequate security measures have been put in place before, during, and after the elections.
Members of the public were further advised to remain vigilant and promptly report any suspicious persons or activities to the Police through the emergency lines 08032003913 and 08061581938.
