Falana questions Wike’s authority over FCT public holiday
Femi Falana, a prominent human rights lawyer, has openly criticized Nyesom Wike, the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, for declaring a public holiday and restricting movement during the recent FCT area council election. Falana maintains that Wike lacks the legal power to make such declarations, insisting only the President, Minister of Interior, and governors have that authority. In response, Wike claimed he acted with the President’s approval due to security concerns. However, Falana dismissed this defence, arguing that neither the President nor the minister can legally impose such restrictions for elections.
What we know
- Femi Falana challenged Nyesom Wike to cite any law empowering him to declare a public holiday or restrict movement during the FCT area council election.
- Falana argued that only the President, Minister of Interior, and governors can declare federal or state holidays.
- Wike stated he had the President’s approval to restrict movement, citing security reports about potential threats.
- Falana dismissed this justification, stating the President lacks the power to direct election conduct or movement restrictions in this context.
- Falana also questioned whether Wike himself complied with the restriction order, as he was not a registered voter in the FCT.
