Thousands of commuters were left stranded on Saturday along the Abuja–Keffi Highway following the enforcement of a movement restriction order during the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) area council elections.
According to a report by Arise News and followed by the news chronicle, security operatives cordoned off sections of the busy highway to ensure compliance with the restriction directive, which was imposed to guarantee a peaceful and orderly conduct of the polls.
Vehicular movement was halted in the early hours of the day, leaving passengers, commercial drivers, and private motorists unable to proceed on the route. The development disrupted travel plans and commercial activities along the corridor, which serves as a major link between the Federal Capital Territory and neighbouring Nasarawa State as well as other parts of the North Central region.
Security agencies were stationed at strategic points along the highway, turning back vehicles and directing residents to comply with the stay-at-home order, except for those on essential duties. Authorities maintained that the measure was necessary to prevent electoral malpractice and maintain law and order during the voting process.
While the restriction achieved its security objective, it significantly affected mobility along one of the capital city’s busiest transport routes.
As voting progressed across the FCT, officials reiterated their commitment to ensuring a peaceful electoral process and urged residents to cooperate fully with security personnel and adhere strictly to electoral guidelines.
