Just days before the scheduled council elections in the Federal Capital Territory, unknown individuals reportedly tried to set fire to an Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) building in Abaji Area Council on Thursday, February 19.
The attempted attack caused alarm in the community, highlighting ongoing security challenges as the elections approach.
The incident, which caused alarm among residents, underscores the heightened security concerns surrounding electoral activities in the FCT.
The targeted building is currently under renovation and not yet operational. According to the Abaji Police Division, the attempt was reported at about 7:30 a.m., when local officers received information that unidentified individuals were trying to ignite the structure.
Prompt action by the police patrol team helped prevent what could have escalated into a significant fire incident.
Police spokespersons revealed that the fire was quickly extinguished upon their arrival. Preliminary assessments by the authorities indicate that the incident is likely an act of foul play.
“From our on-the-spot evaluation, it is suspected that this was a deliberate attempt to damage the property, as the building is still undergoing renovation,” the police said.
They also noted that the contractor in charge of the renovation project has yet to meet the project deadline, which may have contributed to the vulnerability of the building.
The police emphasized that the office in question is not the main INEC office currently used for electoral operations.
“It is important to clarify that the main INEC office remains intact, secure, and fully operational,” a police official stated.
Residents and stakeholders were reassured that the commission’s critical functions, including election preparations, continue without disruption.
Authorities also highlighted that armed personnel have been deployed to maintain law and order in the area.
Surveillance measures around electoral facilities have been intensified to ensure the safety of both personnel and infrastructure, especially as the FCT council elections approach.
Security teams remain on high alert, with ongoing monitoring to prevent any recurrence of similar incidents.
The attempted arson at the INEC building has sparked discussions about the vulnerability of election-related infrastructure.
Experts warn that such attacks, if successful, could disrupt the preparation and conduct of elections.
“Safeguarding INEC offices is critical to ensuring that electoral processes proceed smoothly and credibly,” said a security analyst who requested anonymity.
Residents of Abaji Area Council expressed mixed reactions to the incident. While some praised the swift response of the police, others called for more proactive measures to protect INEC facilities, especially in areas prone to security risks.
Local community leaders have urged collaboration between residents and law enforcement agencies to prevent sabotage that could undermine the integrity of elections.
The FCT Police Command has confirmed that investigations are ongoing to identify and apprehend those responsible for the attempted attack.
They also reiterated that the targeted office is separate from the main operational hub of INEC, which remains safe and fully functional.
“We are treating this matter with utmost seriousness, and all necessary steps are being taken to ensure electoral infrastructure is protected,” the police said.
In addition to on-ground patrols, authorities are monitoring surveillance footage and interviewing witnesses in an effort to gather actionable intelligence.
Security measures have also been extended to other INEC facilities across the FCT to prevent any coordinated attacks ahead of the elections.
The police assured that the public can participate in the upcoming elections without fear, emphasizing that the commission’s offices and personnel are adequately protected.
The timing of the attempted arson—just two days before the council elections—has raised concerns about possible political motivations.
While investigators are yet to confirm any link to electoral activities, the incident serves as a reminder of the importance of vigilance during sensitive periods.
Analysts have stressed that election-related attacks not only jeopardize physical infrastructure but also aim to create fear and disrupt democratic processes.
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