President Tinubu has called on voters, security agencies, and officials of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to maintain calm and act orderly during Saturday’s elections in the Federal Capital Territory and the states of Kano and Rivers.
The appeal was contained in a statement released by Bayo Onanuga, Special Adviser to the President on Information and Strategy, on February 20, 2026.
INEC is set to conduct elections across the six area councils of the FCT and hold bye-elections in the Ahoada East II and Khana II State constituencies of Rivers State, as well as the Kano Municipal and Ungogo constituencies in Kano State.
President Tinubu urged all eligible voters to come out and cast their ballots without fear, noting that democracy thrives best in an atmosphere of calm, tolerance, and mutual respect.
He also appealed to political parties, candidates, and their supporters to avoid violence and inflammatory actions that could undermine the credibility of the process.
He cautioned against any form of high-handedness or intimidation that might disenfranchise voters or erode public trust, stressing that security personnel are deployed to protect lives, property, and the integrity of the vote.
The President further called on INEC to ensure timely accreditation, smooth voting processes, accurate collation, and prompt transmission of results, in line with 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.”
“To all residents of the FCT, Kano, and Rivers, I commend your civic consciousness. I am confident that these elections will reflect the will of the people and further strengthen our democratic journey as a nation,” Tinubu added.
