**Wike Declares Support for FCT Poll Candidates Backing Tinubu** As Nigeria gears up for the highly anticipated FCT Area Council elections scheduled for February 21, 2026, the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, has ignited a storm of reaction with his declaration of support for only candidates who align with President Bola Tinubu. Speaking at a birthday celebration in Abuja, Wike boldly stated that he would back any candidate, regardless of party affiliation, who shares the President's vision. Wike's stance has sparked debate among Nigerians, with some hailing him as a loyal ally and others criticizing him for meddling in the electoral process. The minister's unapologetic stance, however, has left little doubt about his intentions. He has vowed to work for candidates who support Tinubu's agenda and, conversely, to thwart the chances of those who do not. The FCT Area Council elections are set to be a major showdown between the country's two dominant parties, the All Progressives Congress (APC) and the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP). Other parties, including the African Democratic Congress, have also fielded candidates in the poll. With the deployment of over 4,000 security personnel by the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps, the elections are expected to be relatively peaceful. The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has confirmed that about 1.68 million registered voters will participate in the elections, with electors choosing chairpersons, vice-chairpersons, and councillors across the six area councils. To ensure transparency, INEC has deployed the IReV portal for real-time viewing of results. As Nigerians await the outcome of the elections, Wike's declaration has added a new layer of complexity to the electoral landscape. Will his support for Tinubu-backed candidates sway the outcome of the elections? Only time will tell.