Residents of Nigeria’s Federal Capital Territory were left stunned after the chairmanship candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party in the upcoming Bwari Area Council election suddenly withdrew and endorsed his opponent from the All Progressives Congress.
Mr Julius Adamu announced on Wednesday, February 18, 2026, that he would no longer contest in the Saturday, February 21, 2026 election. Instead, he declared support for Mr Joshua Ishaku of the All Progressives Congress.
Adamu explained that the decision followed consultations with the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Mr Nyesom Wike. He said the step was taken “in the interest of unity and peace” and urged his supporters to vote for Ishaku.
The move immediately triggered debate among residents of Bwari, a local government area within Nigeria’s capital city of Abuja.
Mr James Ambo criticised the timing of the withdrawal.
“It could either be about money, position or for the interest of some high and mighty which, unfortunately, is at the detriment of the grassroots people who are hopeful that true democracy prevailed.
“It is quite unfortunate that no one cares about how we supporters and electorate feel in all these. They only think of their own interests,” he said.
Mr Elekwachi Stephen said democracy “is meant to bring hope to the people and not a game of power and control to a particular group or persons.”
He suggested the outcome may have been predetermined and warned that some voters could stay away from the polls.
Miss Abigail Dauda expressed frustration and said she no longer felt invested in the outcome of the election.
However, Mr Caleb Abaji welcomed the decision, describing it as “true followership of a disciple to his leader.” He argued that political actors must sometimes make sacrifices for stability and development.
Madam Comfort Elias described the development as divine will and encouraged residents to vote on Saturday.
The development comes shortly after the Supreme Court of Nigeria, on Monday, February 16, 2026, affirmed Mr Joshua Ishaku as the legitimate candidate of the All Progressives Congress following a dispute that reached the nation’s highest court. A five-member panel led by Justice Jamilu Tukur delivered a four-to-one ruling that overturned a previous appellate court decision which had recognised Mr Haruna Audi.
With the election only days away, many residents are now watching to see whether voter turnout will be affected and whether the endorsement has effectively sealed the race.