Fresh controversy has trailed the forthcoming Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Area Council elections following the reported withdrawal of two candidates of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), raising concerns about the level of opposition participation in the polls.
According to a report by the Daily Trust dated Friday, February 20, 2026, the development has sparked debate within political circles, with insiders suggesting it may reflect a lack of strong opposition contest against the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC).
The report indicated that Julius Adamu, the PDP candidate for Bwari Area Council, announced his withdrawal on Wednesday and pledged support for the APC candidate, Joshua Ishaku Musa.
Less than 24 hours later, Zadna Dantani, the PDP candidate for the Abuja Municipal Area Council (AMAC), was also said to have stepped down from the race.
Both candidates reportedly attributed their decisions to what they described as “fatherly advice” from the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike.
Reacting to the development, the Executive Director of YIAGA Africa, Samson Itodo, was quoted as questioning the credibility of the withdrawals. He reportedly suggested that the affected aspirants might not have been serious contenders from the outset.
According to him, it is unusual for a committed candidate with a strong belief in their chances of victory to withdraw from a race for minor or avoidable reasons. He further argued that the withdrawals may have significant electoral implications.
Citing legal considerations, Itodo reportedly noted that the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) would not reprint ballot papers to reflect the withdrawals, meaning votes cast for the withdrawn candidates would still be counted for the PDP.
He explained that such votes would not benefit the APC candidates they appear to be endorsing, but would instead remain credited to the PDP, effectively leaving the party without active contenders in the affected councils just days before the elections.
The unfolding situation has intensified political conversations ahead of the FCT Area Council polls, as stakeholders continue to monitor developments closely.
More updates are expected.