Wike Dismisses Rigging Allegations Ahead of 2026 Area Council Polls

The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, has urged critics to focus on tangible development achievements rather than allege electoral malpractice ahead of the February 21, 2026 Area Council elections.

He spoke on Tuesday during the inauguration of the Right Hand Service Carriageway of the Inner Northern Expressway, stretching from Ring Road Three to the Outer Northern Expressway.

Wike challenged opposition contestants to campaign on the infrastructure record his administration has delivered across FCT communities.

“Those who are with us, they have the opportunity to tell people what we have done. So let people not waste their money. The result is known by what we have shown you,” he said.

He described the completed expressway segment as the real “rigging,” pointing to visible projects—roads, bus terminals and schools—as proof of performance.

“When you provide what the people want, everything is gone,” Wike added. “Those of you who are my friends, we will come out and tell the people: look at the roads, look at the bus terminals, look at the schools.”

According to The PUNCH, the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) announced on June 17 that the Area Council elections will hold on February 21, 2026. Political parties have since begun selling nomination and expression of interest forms for chairmanship and councillorship positions, with primary election dates already scheduled.

Wike also highlighted the cost and timeline of the expressway project, originally awarded in 2014 at ₦7 billion but completed at a revised cost of ₦31 billion following variations.

He thanked President Bola Tinubu for his backing and emphasized the role of road infrastructure in driving economic growth and attracting investment to the FCT.

“Road infrastructure is the driver of any economic growth. Investors will come when there are roads,” Wike said, adding that continued presidential support is vital for further development. “We pray that you continue to support us the way you have supported us. Do not relent, because we cannot do anything if you are not giving us any support.”