By Dora Akugbo
The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, has warned hotel owners and operators of event centres in Abuja against transacting with political party factions not recognized by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC).
The directive was issued on Friday through the Senior Special Assistant on Public Communications and Social Media to the FCT Minister, Mr. Lere Olayinka, amid rising political tensions and internal disputes within major political parties ahead of the 2027 general elections.
According to the statement, owners of hotels and event centres must ensure that only INEC-recognized leadership of political parties are allowed to use their facilities for meetings, conventions or political gatherings.
“Owners of Event Centres and Hotels in particular must ensure that they only deal with Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC)-recognized leadership of political parties in respect of the use of their facilities, and proper records of transactions must be kept,” the statement read.
The FCTA further warned that failure to comply with the directive could attract severe sanctions, including the revocation of title documents of affected properties.
The administration explained that the measure was aimed at maintaining peace and security in the Federal Capital Territory, especially as political activities intensify ahead of the next general elections.
The statement noted that security agencies and relevant authorities would closely monitor activities at public facilities to prevent gatherings capable of causing unrest or threatening public order in Abuja.
The development comes at a time when several political parties, including the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and Labour Party, are facing leadership crises and factional disputes, with rival groups battling for legitimacy and recognition by INEC.
Political observers say the directive may generate debate over the powers of the FCTA and concerns about political inclusiveness as preparations for the 2027 elections gather momentum.