Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) presidential aspirant Gbenga Hashim has cast doubt on the All Progressives Congress’ (APC) reported victories in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Area Council elections. Speaking to party stakeholders in Abuja, Hashim described the results as an engineered illusion, asserting that many declared APC winners were long-time PDP members who switched allegiances under pressure. The controversy signals rising political tension in Nigeria’s capital ahead of the 2027 general elections.

Hashim addressed party leaders, ward chairmen, and State Executive Committee members, warning that the APC’s proclaimed wins in the six FCT Area Councils do not reflect genuine voter support. “In reality, the contest was PDP versus PDP,” Hashim said, highlighting what he described as the strategic deployment of state resources to manufacture the appearance of competition. He emphasized that authentic political strength derives from grassroots mobilisation, not manipulated outcomes.

The FCT PDP Chairman, Alhaji Ismail Mohammed Dogara, reaffirmed the party’s backing for Hashim’s 2027 presidential ambition, a motion seconded by PDP Board of Trustees member Hon. Isa Dobi. Attendees also applauded Hashim for his support of party candidates before and during the elections and called for the immediate release of detained party members, alleging that arrests were used to influence voting outcomes.

Beyond the council polls, the dispute reflects intensifying rivalry in the FCT as both major parties position themselves for 2027. Analysts note that repeated accusations of engineered elections erode public trust in democratic processes and underscore the fragility of political institutions at the local level. For the PDP, the FCT remains a strategic stronghold, making the credibility of council elections critical for momentum heading into national contests.
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The FCT has historically been a battleground for political influence, with both parties leveraging local governance structures to consolidate support. Party-switching, deployment of resources, and alleged interference with party members are recurring issues, but the level of coordination described by Hashim points to sophisticated election engineering that could redefine strategies for 2027.

Will these allegations lead to concrete investigations or meaningful reforms in FCT election practices?. As the 2027 general elections draw closer, both PDP and APC are racing to assert credibility and consolidate their influence. The response of authorities to claims of electoral manipulation and detentions will play a decisive role in shaping voter confidence and the political landscape of Nigeria’s capital for years to come.