Nigerian activist Aisha Yesufu has called for a united opposition front following her withdrawal from the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC) senatorial race for the Federal Capital Territory (FCT). Yesufu's withdrawal brings an end to her brief bid for the 2027 senatorial election, which began after she declared interest in the FCT seat on May 6 following her defection from the African Democratic Congress (ADC) to the NDC.
Internal Realignments
Her decision comes amid indications of internal realignments within the party over the FCT senatorial ticket, with reports suggesting that the NDC may have favoured another aspirant. Despite stepping down from the race, Yesufu has continued her grassroots engagements across the six area councils of the FCT, including Kwali, Abaji, Gwagwalada, Abuja Municipal Area Council (AMAC), Bwari and Kuje.
Appreciation Tour
During the visits, she met party officials, supporters, stakeholders and residents in what she described as an appreciation tour to thank them for their support during her political engagement. Speaking during the interactions, Yesufu expressed gratitude to her supporters, noting that their encouragement remained significant even after her withdrawal from the senatorial contest.
She stressed that her decision did not diminish her commitment to political participation and accountability, adding that the broader struggle for good governance must remain a collective priority. According to her, the movement she represents has always been bigger than any individual ambition, insisting that the focus should be on building a better and more inclusive Nigeria.
Call for Unity
Yesufu also used the engagements to call for greater unity among opposition forces, urging political actors and citizens who share reformist ideals to work together in pursuit of national development. She emphasised that a fragmented opposition weakens the chances of meaningful political change, adding that collaboration remains essential in strengthening democratic accountability.
The visits also provided an opportunity for community engagement with youth groups, women associations and local leaders, many of whom commended her continued outreach despite exiting the race. Some supporters expressed concern over what they described as the party's handling of the senatorial nomination process, despite what they claimed was strong grassroots backing for her candidacy.
Nevertheless, they maintained that the development would not dampen their resolve to continue mobilising for political reform and improved governance.
