This post has already been read at least 1173 times!

…Says Imposition of Candidates Killing Internal Democracy, Forcing Members to Leave

A founding member of the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Alhaji Abdullahi D. Galadima, has strongly criticised the party’s handling of its internal democratic processes, accusing national officers of high-scale interference in the selection of flagbearers for major elections.

Galadima, who once served as the Executive Chairman of Kuje Area Council and later as Chairman of the Federal Government’s Special Public Works Programme (SPWP) in the FCT, lamented that the imposition of candidates by the party leadership has driven many members away from the APC, describing it as “a betrayal of democratic ideals.”

In an exclusive interview, Galadima declared that the continued meddling of party leaders in primary elections has rendered the concept of internal democracy meaningless. According to him, several aspirants who enjoy grassroots support are often sidelined in favour of handpicked candidates preferred by a few powerful figures within the APC hierarchy.

“Undue interference in primary elections has forced many loyal members out of the APC,” Galadima stated. “Politicians who are the people’s choice and considered better qualified are sidelined because of the vested interests of top-ranking party leaders. This is making nonsense of the whole idea of party primaries.”

“No Election Took Place in Kuje”

Using Kuje Area Council as an example, Galadima alleged that his effort to recontest for chairman in 2026 was deliberately frustrated. He claimed that despite his long-standing service and popularity in the area, a total stranger without an APC membership card was imposed as the party’s flagbearer for the February 2026 FCT Chairmanship election.

“What happened in Kuje during the primaries was more like a robbery because there was no election,” he said. “The party simply brought an outsider who is not even a member of the APC and gave him the ticket. This is imposition, despite our overwhelming support and capacity to deliver victory at the polls.”

Similar complaints, Galadima added, were reported in other area councils, notably Bwari and Kwali, where aggrieved members organised protests at the APC National Secretariat. He, however, lamented that the demonstrations were ignored by the party’s leadership, deepening discontent among grassroots members.

Exit from APC and Move to APGA

Galadima disclosed that he has now defected to the All Progressives Grand Alliance (APGA) after consultations with his supporters, who insisted that he should seek a new political platform to pursue his 2026 chairmanship ambition.

“After the sham primary election, my supporters were completely frustrated. They advised me to leave the APC and contest under APGA, where our voices can be heard,” he revealed.

Despite his grievances, the former APC stalwart commended President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, describing him as “a visionary and exemplary leader” whose commitment to reform and good governance remains evident. He pledged to deliver massive support for President Tinubu in Kuje during the next presidential election, saying his loyalty to national progress outweighs party politics.

Commends Longer LG Tenure and Calls for Peaceful Campaigns

Galadima also praised the National Assembly’s decision to extend the tenure of local government chairmen from three to four years, noting that the reform will give council leaders more time to deliver meaningful projects.

He urged aspirants across political parties to conduct issue-based campaigns, avoid violence, and respect the rights of rivals.

“The era of using violence or destroying posters and billboards to win elections is over,” he stressed. “Let campaigns be about ideas, not intimidation.”

Reject Vote Buying, Galadima Tells Voters

On the issue of vote buying, Galadima warned voters against selling their conscience, urging them to resist any attempt by politicians to buy their votes with money.

“If you sell your vote, don’t complain when the person you elected becomes inaccessible or fails to deliver,” he cautioned.

Calls for Credible 2026 FCT Elections

The former council boss appealed to President Tinubu and the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to ensure that the February 2026 FCT Chairmanship elections are free, fair, and credible across the six area councils.

He stressed that every candidate, regardless of party affiliation, should be given a level playing field to compete.

Looking ahead, Galadima promised to run a people-oriented administration if elected, with a focus on rural infrastructure, youth empowerment, agriculture, water supply, and education.

“This time around, we will make a difference. Our focus will be on rural roads, empowering our youth, and ensuring every community feels the impact of governance,” he concluded.

This post has already been read at least 1173 times!