\n\nThe Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Minister, Nyesom Wike, has been accused of interfering in the build-up to the recent Abuja Local Government elections, according to Ini Ememobong, National Publicity Secretary of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP).
In an interview on Channels Television, Ememobong said actions by the FCT minister just 48 hours before the election raised serious doubts about the fairness of the process. He stated that Wike “was moving around forcing members of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) to step down,” suggesting that pressure was applied on some party members in the crucial hours leading to voting day.
Ememobong emphasised that elections should be free and fair, with every candidate and party given equal opportunity to compete without interference. He said any attempt to push members of a political party to withdraw from the race weakens confidence in the democratic system and could discourage voters from taking part in future elections.
The Abuja Area Council elections, held on Saturday, February 21, 2026, saw major parties compete for leadership positions in the six councils of the Federal Capital Territory. While results showed the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) winning most seats, the PDP raised concerns over what it described as irregularities and political pressure during the campaign period.
Ememobong’s comments reflect ongoing tension within the PDP and broader debate over electoral conduct in the nation’s capital. He urged that public confidence in elections must be protected and that all parties should be allowed to contest without fear or coercion.
The FCT minister has not yet directly responded to the accusations. Supporters of the ruling party, however, have praised the smooth conduct of the election, with the APC describing the outcome as a sign of voter confidence.
