Politics
ADC Condemns Wike’s Alleged Interference in FCT Elections, Seeks Restoration of INEC Portal
The African Democratic Congress (ADC) has condemned what it described as interference by the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, in the ongoing Federal Capital Territory (FCT) area council elections.
In a statement signed by its National Publicity Secretary, Bolaji Abdullahi, the party criticised the minister’s movement around various polling units in Abuja, which it said was being carried out under the guise of “monitoring.”
The ADC alleged that Wike’s actions followed what it termed a unilateral imposition of a curfew on potential voters, arguing that his presence at polling units during active voting constituted direct interference in the electoral process.
According to the party, Wike is not a registered voter in the FCT and, as a cabinet minister and known partisan figure, has no constitutional role in the conduct of elections. It described his presence at polling units as “vexatious and meddlesome,” warning that it could intimidate voters and electoral officials.
The party also claimed it had received reports of voter suppression and intimidation in parts of the FCT. It further alleged collaboration between agents of the All Progressives Congress (APC) and some security personnel, though it did not provide specific details.
In addition, the ADC raised concerns over disruptions to the Independent National Electoral Commission’s (INEC) Result Viewing Portal (IReV), which it said remained inaccessible even as results were being collated.
Describing the development as a “curious coincidence,” the party called on the Independent National Electoral Commission to urgently restore full functionality of the portal and provide a clear public explanation for the disruption.
The ADC urged its party agents and supporters to remain calm but vigilant, advising them to document any incidents observed during the electoral process.
The statement was signed by Mallam Bolaji Abdullahi, National Publicity Secretary of the party.
Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar has expressed concern over the low voter turnout recorded in Saturday’s Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Area Council elections, describing it as a troubling sign for Nigeria’s democracy.
In a statement issued on February 22, 2026, Atiku said turnout averaged below 20 per cent across the FCT, with the Abuja Municipal Area Council recording just 7.8 per cent participation.
The former vice president, a chieftain of the African Democratic Congress (ADC), described the figures as a “damning verdict” on the state of democracy under President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.
According to him, the low turnout reflects a political climate marked by intolerance, intimidation, and the weakening of opposition voices.
“When citizens lose faith that their votes matter, democracy begins to die,” Atiku said, warning that Nigeria’s democratic space is being “slowly, steadily, and dangerously” eroded.
He cautioned that continued decline in public confidence and political competition could inflict lasting damage on the country’s democratic foundations.
Atiku also called on opposition parties and democratic stakeholders to unite, saying the moment demands collective action to “preserve the Republic.”
Even in defeat, Dr Paul Moses, the African Democratic Congress (ADC) candidate for the Abuja Municipal Area Council (AMAC) chairmanship, has called for unity and continued commitment to public service. Following Saturday’s election, Dr Paul formally accepted the results while reaffirming his dedication to the people of AMAC.
In a statement released after the results were announced, he expressed gratitude to his supporters, campaign team, and residents who believed in his vision for the council.
“I accept the outcome of the election. Democracy demands respect for the will of the people, and I remain committed to the principles of peace, progress, and service,” he said.
Despite the setback, Dr. Paul stressed that the election does not mark the end of his efforts in public service. “This is not the end of the journey. Our movement for accountable leadership, inclusive governance, and sustainable development in AMAC remains strong. We will continue to engage, organize, and work towards a better future for our people,” he added.
He urged his supporters to stay calm, focused, and united, assuring them that the ideals championed during the campaign would continue to guide his advocacy and engagement in the community.
The National Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Professor Nentawe Goshwe Yilwatda, has described the outcome of the weekend elections in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Kano and Rivers States as a strong endorsement of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s reform agenda.
In a statement issued on Sunday by his Special Adviser on Media and Communications Strategy, Abimbola Tooki, Yilwatda said the party’s performance; particularly in the nation’s capital, demonstrates growing public confidence in the administration’s Renewed Hope Agenda.
He congratulated APC supporters for what he called the peaceful and credible conduct of the February 21, 2026 polls, noting that the victories recorded by the party reflect its resilience, unity and grassroots strength.
According to him, the results of the FCT Area Council elections carry significant national implications.
“The Abuja outcome is a clear signal that Nigerians from diverse backgrounds stand firmly behind President Tinubu’s bold reforms. As residents of the nation’s capital, their decision sends a strong message of confidence in the administration’s commitment to repositioning the country for sustainable growth and prosperity,” he stated.
Yilwatda congratulated the APC chairmanship candidates who secured victories in Abuja Municipal Area Council (AMAC), Kuje, Abaji, Bwari and Kwali, saying the wins underscore the party’s connection with the people at the grassroots.
He also acknowledged the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) candidate who won in Gwagwalada, describing the result as evidence that democracy and the will of the electorate were upheld.
The APC chairman further celebrated the party’s four State House of Assembly candidates who emerged victorious in Kano and Rivers States, attributing their success to effective party organisation and public trust in APC leadership.
He commended party leaders, stakeholders, and supporters across the affected states for their discipline and peaceful participation in the electoral process. Yilwatda also praised security agencies and election officials for their professionalism.
“As we celebrate, we must remain united and focused on delivering good governance. Nigerians are demanding accountability, tangible results, and sustained reforms under the Renewed Hope Agenda. The APC remains committed to meeting those expectations,” the statement concluded.