PDP Candidate Withdraws from FCT Election, Endorses APC Rival
In a significant political development ahead of the Federal Capital Territory area council elections, Julius Adamu, the Peoples Democratic Party chairmanship candidate for Bwari Area Council, has officially withdrawn from the race. Adamu announced his decision to step down and support Joshua Ishaku Musa of the All Progressives Congress during a public appearance alongside FCT Minister Nyesom Wike.
Brotherly Unity Cited as Reason for Withdrawal
The unexpected announcement came on Wednesday, February 18, 2026, just days before the scheduled Saturday elections. In a video shared on social media platform X, Adamu stood beside Minister Wike while chanting "PDAPC" - a blend of both major political parties' acronyms. He explained his decision by emphasizing familial bonds and political pragmatism.
"I and Joshua, we are brothers, and it would not be nice for two brothers to kill themselves over one reason. As such, I have relinquished my support to Honorable Joshua," Adamu declared. He further urged his supporters and political followers to transfer their allegiance to Musa to ensure his victory in the Bwari Area Council chairmanship race.
Wike Reaffirms Support for Pro-Tinubu Candidates
FCT Minister Nyesom Wike, present during Adamu's announcement, used the occasion to reiterate his political stance regarding the upcoming council elections. The minister emphasized that his support would exclusively go to candidates who demonstrate alignment with President Bola Tinubu's administration and vision.
"We have the FCT area council election coming up on February 21, and I have a duty to support any candidate that supports President Tinubu to win," Wike stated firmly. "It is also my duty to ensure that any candidate who is not supporting Tinubu does not win in the election, and I owe no apology for my stance."
Political Realignment Reshapes Election Dynamics
Adamu's withdrawal has created substantial political ripples in the Bwari Area Council race, fundamentally altering the electoral landscape. Political analysts suggest this move could consolidate support behind the APC candidate and significantly influence voter behavior in the approaching election.
The development highlights the growing influence of ministerial endorsements in FCT politics and demonstrates how political alliances continue to evolve in Nigeria's capital territory. Observers note that such last-minute realignments often create unpredictable outcomes in local elections.
Background of Wike's Political Position
Minister Wike had previously articulated his position regarding the FCT area council elections during Senator Sandy Onor's 60th birthday celebration in Abuja on February 14, 2026. On that occasion, he clearly stated that only candidates supporting President Tinubu's vision would receive his backing.
The minister emphasized that party affiliation would not determine his support, marking a significant departure from traditional party-line politics. This stance reflects the complex political calculations occurring within Nigeria's capital territory administration as different factions maneuver for influence.
Election Preparations Intensify
With the FCT area council elections scheduled for Saturday, February 21, 2026, political activities have reached their peak across the territory's six area councils. The Bwari Area Council race has now become particularly noteworthy due to Adamu's withdrawal and the resulting consolidation of support behind the APC candidate.
Election observers anticipate that this development will make the Bwari contest one of the most closely watched races in the FCT elections, with potential implications for political dynamics in other area councils. The elections represent a crucial test of political strength for both major parties in Nigeria's capital territory.
As candidates make their final appeals to voters and political alliances continue to shift, the FCT area council elections promise to deliver significant insights into Nigeria's evolving political landscape at the local government level.
