In a statement released on Friday, Nigerian President Bola Tinubu addressed the upcoming elections in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Kano, and Rivers states, emphasizing the importance of a peaceful electoral process. As these regions prepare to vote on Saturday, he called upon voters, political parties, the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), and security agencies to refrain from violence and electoral malpractices. This warning underscores the volatile nature of Nigerian elections, where tensions and conflicts have often marred the democratic process.

Tinubu's statement was conveyed through his Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, who reiterated the necessity for an atmosphere of calm, tolerance, and mutual respect during the elections. He encouraged eligible voters to participate actively without fear, highlighting that democracy flourishes best in environments free from intimidation. The call for peaceful elections is particularly significant given the recent history of violence and disputes surrounding electoral outcomes in Nigeria.

The INEC is set to manage elections across six area councils in the FCT, which involve an impressive number of 1,680,315 registered voters spread across 2,822 polling units. Alongside these elections, there will also be bye-elections taking place in Rivers and Kano states, in which a total of 68 positions, including six chairmanship and 62 councillorship roles, will be contested. This enormous undertaking reflects Nigeria's ongoing struggle to conduct free and fair elections amidst a backdrop of political rivalry and tension.