The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) candidate for the Federal Capital Territory Area Council elections has stepped down in favour of the All Progressives Congress (APC) candidate after intervention by FCT Minister Nyesom Wike, party officials said Monday.
The move happened ahead of Saturday’s FCT Area Council election, a contest seen as a key test for both major parties ahead of the 2027 general polls.
The unnamed PDP candidate wrote a letter to the PDP National Working Committee saying he was withdrawing his candidacy “in the interest of peace and unity” following discussions with Wike, who chairs the party’s FCT Campaign Council.
In a statement, Wike acknowledged his role in reaching the decision.
“I spoke with him personally and all parties agreed that this step was taken for the broader interest of peaceful conduct of the election in the FCT,” Wike said.
He noted that the action was meant to prevent tensions and enhance political stability.
The PDP said the candidate’s withdrawal does not mean the party is abandoning its support for democracy or voters.
“This decision should not be misinterpreted,” a PDP official said. “We remain committed to fair and credible elections across Nigeria.”
The APC welcomed the development, saying it would help foster unity and reduce political conflict in the capital territory.
APC leaders expressed confidence that the step will contribute to a peaceful election process.
Abuja residents have questioned the impact of the withdrawal on voter choice, saying citizens deserve full competition regardless of behind-the-scenes negotiations.
The FCT election is scheduled for this weekend, with candidates contesting chairmanship and councillorship seats across the territory’s six area councils.
