Residents of Abuja will be restricted from movement between 8:00 p.m. Friday and 6:00 p.m. Saturday following a directive issued by Federal Capital Territory, FCT, Minister, Nyesom Wike.
The restriction comes ahead of the area council elections scheduled to take place across the FCT on Saturday.
Authorities say the measure is necessary to ensure tight security and the smooth conduct of the polls.
The decision, approved by President Bola Tinubu, also includes the declaration of Friday as a work-free day to allow residents prepare and participate in the election.
Security agencies have been deployed across the city to enforce compliance, while residents are advised to remain indoors during the restricted hours except for accredited electoral officials and voters.
The government has urged citizens to cooperate with authorities and contribute to a peaceful electoral process.