By Ahmed Akanbi
The All Progressives Congress (APC) primary election in parts of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) was stalled on Saturday, following disagreements over the mode of adoption of consensus candidates.
The deadlock affected Abaji, Kwali, Gwagwalada, and Kuje Area Councils, where members gathered at voting centres from 8 a.m. ready for the exercise. But electoral officials failed to arrive, and supporters dispersed hours later without voting.
The dispute centres on attempts to produce consensus candidates for the Abuja South Federal Constituency House of Representatives seat and the FCT senatorial position ahead of 2027.
Outgoing Gwagwalada Area Council Chairman, Alhaji Abubakar Jibrin Giri, rejected the consensus plan, insisting members should choose candidates through a transparent process.
Giri alleged that recent defectors from the Peoples Democratic Party, PDP are pushing for consensus to gain advantage without following due process.
He insisted that all aspirants for the Abuja South seat should test their popularity at the polls, and whoever wins should get the backing of party faithful.
Criticising the incumbent lawmaker, Alhaji Abdulrahman Ajiya for failing to deliver meaningful development in four years at the National Assembly, Giri pledged accessible leadership, better welfare for constituents, and more infrastructure for Gwagwalada and other communities if elected.
Former FCT Commissioner of the National Population Commission, Hon. Joseph Shazin Kwali, also warned against imposing candidates through consensus.
He said the turnout showed APC supporters want a credible and transparent primary.
“Attempts to force consensus candidates on members could trigger dissatisfaction and possible defections. Meetings are still ongoing, but from my discussions with aspirants, it may be difficult to achieve,” Kwali said.
He urged the party leadership to uphold internal democracy and let members decide who will represent the APC in the coming elections.