The upcoming Federal Capital Territory (FCT) area council election scheduled for Saturday, February 21, 2026, is already generating intense political momentum and controversy.

Former Presidential Candidate Peter Obi recently visited Kado-Kuchi in Abuja to campaign for candidates of the African Democratic Congress (ADC), drawing large crowds of enthusiastic supporters.

Many residents gathered to welcome him, chanting slogans and stressing the importance of electoral integrity with repeated calls that “our vote must count.”

The visit was part of broader efforts to mobilize voters across the FCT ahead of the crucial polls.

However, the political atmosphere has become increasingly charged following controversial remarks attributed to the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike.

The ADC, through its National Spokesman Bolaji Abdullahi, strongly condemned Wike’s alleged declaration of “war” against candidates who do not support President Bola Tinubu.

The party described the remarks as reckless and inflammatory, warning that such rhetoric could heighten political tensions and threaten democratic stability.

ADC officials emphasized that election outcomes must reflect the will of the people, not political pressure from government officials.

The party also raised concerns about Nigeria’s fragile political and economic climate, arguing that provocative statements from senior officials could worsen distrust among citizens.

According to the ADC, attempts to intimidate voters suggest fear of losing public support and reflect a disconnect between political leaders and ordinary Nigerians.

The party vowed to defend democratic processes and resist any efforts to undermine electoral fairness through legal and constitutional means.

Similarly, the FCT chapter of the African Action Congress (AAC) accused Wike of voter intimidation and attempting to influence the election outcome.

AAC chairman Agena Robert Ande described the minister’s alleged remarks as dangerous and potentially destabilizing.

The party questioned whether the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) could remain neutral, calling on the electoral body to publicly reassure citizens of its independence and commitment to credible elections.

The AAC also urged security agencies, including the Department of State Services (DSS) and the Nigeria Police Force, to ensure voters are protected and that the election proceeds peacefully.

The party warnedPresident Tinubu to distance himself from any actions that could undermine democratic credibility, stressing that Nigerians must be allowed to exercise their voting rights without fear or coercion.

With just days remaining before the polls, political tensions in Abuja continue to escalate, underscoring the high stakes of the FCT council elections.

Observers say the outcome will not only determine local leadership but could also reflect broader public sentiment toward Nigeria’s current political leadership and democratic institutions.