FCT Minister Wike hits back at Senator Kingibe over election movement restrictions

AI Summary

The Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Minister Nyesom Wike responded to remarks by Senator Ireti Kingibe concerning movement restrictions during the recent local council elections in Abuja. Wike stated that he did not declare a curfew or public holiday and clarified that the directive was approved by President Bola Tinubu to advise residents to return to their area councils early. He emphasized that the measure was intended to ensure a peaceful election and prevent potential violence, citing intelligence reports. The exchange underscores differing interpretations of the security arrangements for the local elections, with no immediate policy change announced.

Reliability

Reported by 2 sources: Blueprint, daily_post. Also confirmed by Vanguard, Leadership.