Trouble in FCT APC as Aspirant Rejects New Chairman

Trouble is brewing in the FCT chapter of All Progressives Congress, APC following opposition of recent elected chairman of the party, Tanko Ishaku Yamawo by Alhaji Aminu Abubakar, one of the aspirants for the position.

Abubakar has petitioned the party’s Appeal Committee, challenging the process that produced Yamawo at the recently concluded FCT Congress.

In a petition dated April 19 and addressed to the Chairman of the APC FCT Executives Congress Appeal Committee, Abubakar alleged that the emergence of the State Chairman under a purported consensus arrangement lacked transparency, consultation, and adherence to due process.

While acknowledging that the party’s national leadership encourages consensus as a mechanism to avoid conflict, the aspirant argued that such arrangements must comply with democratic principles and the APC constitution.

He stated that all aspirants, including himself, were initially engaged in consultations towards a consensus candidate, adding that he actively campaigned for over two months in line with party guidelines.

However, Abubakar claimed that the process was abruptly altered when one aspirant was declared the consensus candidate without prior consultation with other contenders.

“At no time was I invited to any meeting, informed of the criteria for selection, or given the opportunity to accept or reject any consensus proposal,” he said.

He maintained that a valid consensus candidate can only emerge through mutual agreement among all aspirants, stressing that any arrangement imposed without such consent is invalid.

The aspirant further alleged that he learnt of the outcome through unofficial channels, stating that party members informed him that the inauguration of the new leadership had already commenced.

Describing the process as a violation of internal party democracy, Abubakar cited breaches of the party’s constitution, denial of fair hearing, and what he termed arbitrary exercise of power.

He urged the Appeal Committee to nullify the emergence of the State Chairman, set aside the congress outcome as it relates to the position, and order a fresh process in line with party rules.

In the alternative, he called for a transparent and inclusive consensus process involving all aspirants and based on mutual agreement.

Abubakar said his petition was driven not only by personal concerns but by a commitment to fairness, rule of law, and the long-term stability of the party.

“The petition was copied to key APC officials, including the National Chairman, National Secretary, National Organising Secretary, National Legal Adviser, and the Zonal Vice Chairman (North Central).

As of the time of filing this report, the party had not issued an official response to the allegations.

Meanwhile former Minister of State for FCT Dr Ramatu Tijjani Aliyu, has said Yamawo’s emergence reflects the confidence reposed in his record of service, leadership, and longstanding commitment to the growth of the APC in the territory.

She noted that his emergence comes at a critical time for the party, stressing that it offers an opportunity to strengthen unity, deepen cohesion, and reposition the APC for greater success in the FCT.

“I warmly extend my congratulations to you, Hon. Tanko Ishaku Yamawo, on your emergence as the All Progressives Congress (APC) State Chairman for the Federal Capital Territory. This well-deserved emergence reflects the confidence reposed in your record of service, leadership, dedication, and longstanding commitment to the growth of our great party in the FCT,” she said.

“Your emergence at this critical time presents a renewed opportunity to strengthen party unity, deepen internal cohesion, and reposition the APC in the FCT for greater success. I have no doubt that your experience, capacity, and inclusive leadership style will inspire confidence among party members and stakeholders alike.

“As you assume this important responsibility, I urge you to remain steadfast in promoting dialogue, fairness, and collective progress. The task ahead requires wisdom, resilience, and a clear vision to consolidate on past achievements while building a stronger and more vibrant structure for the future.

Aliyu also assured the new chairman of her continued support, wishing him a successful tenure as he leads the party in the FCT.

NAN