An attempted arson attack targeted a facility belonging to the Independent National Electoral Commission in the Federal Capital Territory just two days before the scheduled FCT Area Council elections on February 21, prompting heightened security concerns.
Police in Abaji Division confirmed that unidentified individuals attempted to set the INEC office building on fire in the early hours of February 19. The structure, currently undergoing renovation, was not in active use at the time of the incident.
Authorities said the report reached the police at about 7:30 a.m., after which a patrol team was immediately deployed to the scene. The officers successfully extinguished the fire before it could cause significant damage.
Context
The attempted attack comes at a sensitive moment, with residents of the Federal Capital Territory preparing to vote in Area Council elections. Electoral facilities across Nigeria have in recent years been targets of vandalism and arson, particularly in the lead up to major polls.
While the affected building was not operational, any incident involving electoral infrastructure so close to voting day raises concerns about voter confidence, security preparedness and the integrity of the electoral process.
Situation Overview
According to police, preliminary on the spot assessment suggested foul play. The building remains under renovation, and the contractor handling the project has yet to meet the agreed deadline. Authorities emphasized that the structure was empty and not the main office currently in use by INEC in the area.
The main INEC office, police said, remains safe and secure.
Key Developments
Law enforcement officials confirmed that the rapid response of the patrol team prevented the situation from escalating. Armed personnel have since been deployed to the area to maintain order and deter any further attempts at disruption.
Security agencies are closely monitoring developments as preparations for the February 21 elections continue.
Critical Moments
The alert raised at approximately 7:30 a.m. proved decisive. Police response units moved swiftly, contained the fire and secured the premises. No casualties were reported.
Officials have not yet announced any arrests, and investigations into the identities and motives of those involved are ongoing.
Developments Over Time
Electoral security has become a priority for authorities nationwide, particularly in the wake of past incidents involving attacks on electoral assets. The proximity of this attempted arson to election day is likely to intensify surveillance and security coordination in and around polling infrastructure in the FCT.
The assurance that the main INEC office remains unaffected is expected to calm immediate fears of operational disruption.
Late Developments
Police reiterated that armed personnel are stationed on ground to maintain law and order, adding that the situation remains under close watch. No indication has been given that the incident will affect Saturday’s elections.
What Comes Next
As the FCT prepares for the Area Council polls, security agencies are expected to sustain a heightened presence around electoral facilities. The attempted arson underscores ongoing risks to public institutions but also highlights the rapid response capability of local law enforcement.
For now, electoral authorities appear determined to proceed as scheduled, with assurances that the voting process will not be compromised.
