The African Democratic Congress (ADC) has raised the alarm over what it described as an attempt to suppress voter turnout ahead of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) elections, following the declaration of a curfew in Abuja.
The party condemned the decision to restrict movement from 8 p.m. on Friday, a day before the elections, arguing that it deviates from established electoral practice and could disenfranchise voters.
In a statement, the ADC said while limited movement restrictions on election day may be justified for security reasons, such measures traditionally begin at midnight on the day of the poll—not hours before.
The party specifically faulted the FCT Minister, Nyesom Wike, accusing authorities of imposing “premature restrictions” after allegedly realising their chances in the election were slim.
“The decision to enforce a curfew before election day is a blatant move to suppress voter turnout,” the party said, insisting that the process must remain open, free, and accessible.
The ADC stressed that elections should be conducted in an environment where voters can move freely, access polling units without hindrance, and return home safely after casting their ballots.
It warned that any action capable of limiting participation undermines democratic principles and called on authorities to reconsider the directive to ensure a credible and inclusive electoral process.
