APC and ADC Split Votes Equally in FCT Council Election at Key Polling Unit
In a rare electoral outcome during the ongoing Federal Capital Territory Area Council elections, the All Progressives Congress and the African Democratic Congress shared votes equally at a polling unit in Abuja. The tie occurred at the Supreme Court Staff Quarters polling unit in Karu, highlighting a tight contest between the two leading parties at this voting location.
Low Voter Turnout Marks the Election Process
Election officials reported a concerningly low voter participation, with only 32 out of 749 registered voters casting their ballots at this unit. This trend of low turnout was observed in several parts of the capital, raising questions about voter engagement in the council elections.
Presiding officer Martins Sani announced the results, revealing that Christopher Maikalangu of the APC polled 12 votes, while Paul Moses of the ADC also secured 12 votes. Other parties recorded marginal figures: the Peoples Democratic Party candidate scored four votes, the All Progressives Grand Alliance received two votes, and the Social Democratic Party and the Action Democratic Party each recorded one vote.
Security Agencies Report Peaceful Election Across FCT
Despite concerns over voter apathy, security authorities described the election as peaceful. The Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps FCT Commandant, Olusola Odumosu, stated that the exercise was orderly following extensive deployment of personnel across area councils.
Odumosu emphasized that security measures were in place to respond to any disturbances, though he did not anticipate violence after results are announced. He described the council elections as a rehearsal for the 2027 general elections, noting that lessons from this exercise would guide future preparations. A post-election review is planned to help security agencies adjust strategies where necessary.
Background on Political Dynamics
Earlier reports indicated that ADC AMAC candidate Moses Paul alleged intimidation after voting in Abuja. Additionally, the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, declared that only candidates aligned with President Bola Tinubu would receive his backing in the forthcoming area council elections, adding a layer of political intrigue to the process.
This election outcome underscores the competitive nature of local politics in Abuja and the challenges of voter mobilization in urban areas. The split result at the Karu polling unit serves as a microcosm of broader electoral trends in Nigeria's capital region.
