Area Council Polls: Military-enforced Movement Restriction Triggers Heavy Traffic In FCT

Vehicular movement was brought to a standstill around Karu Bridge on Saturday following a military-enforced restriction as part of security arrangements for the ongoing Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Area Council Elections.

The restriction, which began around midday, caused a severe traffic gridlock that left hundreds of commuters stranded between Karu and the Abuja city centre.

Military oersonnel blocked the major access route at the bridge, halting movement in both directions and triggering frustration among motorists and passengers alike.

Attempts to pass through the checkpoint were unsuccessful, as the soldiers manning the barricade declined to grant passage or respond to inquiries.

At the scene, about four military Hilux vehicles were stationed on the road, with heavily armed soldiers strategically positioned around them. Motorists attempting to reach the city centre were forced to turn back towards Karu, while others heading in the opposite direction were redirected.

The restriction also affected accredited election officials and essential workers on duty, who were unable to proceed to their destinations.

Recall that the Nigeria Police Force (NPF), FCT Command, imposed a 12-hour restriction on vehicular and human movements across Abuja and its environs ahead of the Area Council elections scheduled for Saturday, February 21, 2026.

According to a statement by the Police Public Relations Officer (PPRO), SP Josephine Adeh, on Friday, she said the measure was intended to ensure security and the smooth conduct of the polls.

“The Commissioner of Police, FCT Command, Miller G. Dantawaye, psc., has announced a restriction of movement across the Federal Capital Territory from 6:00 AM to 6:00 PM on Saturday, 21st February, 2026, in view of the scheduled Area Council Elections,” the statement read.
The restriction applies to all residents, except essential service providers and duly accredited election officials. The command also called on residents to remain peaceful and cooperate with security agencies.

“The FCT Police Command urges residents to remain law-abiding and cooperate with security agencies to ensure a safe, free, and credible electoral process,” the statement added.