PDP Alleges Coercion in FCT Polls as Chairmanship Candidates Withdraw

The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has condemned the sudden withdrawal of some of its chairmanship candidates ahead of the Abuja area council elections, describing the action as forced and politically motivated.

In a statement released on Friday, the party’s National Publicity Secretary, Comrade Ini Ememobong, said the party received the news “with utter dismay,” calling the withdrawals anti-democratic and unacceptable.

Allegations of Political Manipulation

The PDP accused certain individuals claiming to represent party leadership of undermining the party’s independence for the benefit of the President. The party suggested that these withdrawals were part of a wider agenda to weaken opposition and manipulate future elections.

“As sad as this development is, it is a pointer to the type of voodoo democracy promoted by those parading as leaders of the PDP, whose only interest is to ‘hold’ the party for the President,” the statement read.

The party also highlighted that democracy thrives on competitive elections, warning that forced or induced withdrawals erode public trust in political processes.

“This is exactly what they intended to do to Nigerians, compelling or cajoling candidates to step down for the President to have a smooth sail back to Aso Rock Villa, despite the abysmal performance of his administration,” it added.

The PDP reiterated its commitment to rebuilding a strong opposition and ensuring that its internal processes remain free, fair, and democratic ahead of the 2027 general elections.