RismadarVoice Reporters, February 20, 2026
The National Working Committee (NWC) of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has strongly condemned the reported withdrawal of some of its chairmanship candidates ahead of the forthcoming Abuja Area Council elections, describing the development as anti-democratic and unacceptable.
In a press statement issued on Friday, signed by the party’s National Publicity Secretary, Comrade Ini Ememobong, the PDP said it received the news of the withdrawals “with utter dismay,” insisting that such actions were not taken with the consent or approval of the party.
According to the statement, democracy thrives on open, competitive elections, not what it described as “forced or induced melodramatic consensus,” allegedly being witnessed in the build-up to the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) local council polls.
The party further alleged that the development reflects what it termed a troubling pattern of internal manipulation by individuals it accused of parading themselves as leaders of the PDP for personal or external interests.
“It is exactly what they intended to do to Nigerians, when close to the Presidential elections, they can compel, induce or cajole all the other candidates to step down or withdraw for the President to have a smooth sail back to Aso Rock Villa, despite the abysmal performance of his administration,” the statement read.
SThe NWC maintained that previous disciplinary measures taken against certain individuals were aimed at rebuilding a stronger opposition party capable of mounting a credible challenge in 2027.
The party also called on voters in the FCT to remain vigilant during the elections, urging them to protect their votes and ensure that Presiding Officers transmit Form EC8A immediately after results are announced at polling units.
The PDP reaffirmed its commitment to internal democracy and credible electoral processes, stating that it would continue to resist any actions capable of undermining democratic principles.
