(DDM) – The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has strongly criticized the withdrawal of some of its chairmanship candidates ahead of the upcoming Abuja Local Council elections, describing the move as “shameful” and carried out without the party’s authorization.
In a statement issued on Friday, the party’s National Publicity Secretary, Comrade Ini Ememobong, said the withdrawals were anti-democratic and detrimental to the integrity of the electoral process. According to him, democracy thrives on open and competitive contests rather than what he described as forced or induced consensus.
“This action is anti-democratic in every sense and is hereby totally condemned by the Party. Democracy thrives on healthy electoral contests, not forced or induced melodramatic consensus, as currently witnessed in the build-up to the FCT local council elections,” the statement read.
The PDP further alleged that the development reflects what it termed a “voodoo democracy” being promoted by certain individuals within the party whose primary objective, it claimed, is to consolidate political control in favor of the President. Although no names were directly mentioned in the statement, the remarks come amid heightened political tension in the Federal Capital Territory.
The party also expressed concern that similar tactics could be replicated during the presidential election cycle. It warned that compelling or inducing candidates to withdraw from races could undermine electoral competition and pave the way for an uncontested return to Aso Rock.
According to the PDP, such actions contradict democratic values and weaken opposition structures. The party referenced prior disciplinary measures taken against certain members, stating that it had distanced itself from individuals it accused of engaging in actions that undermine party unity and democratic principles.
The statement also called on voters to remain vigilant during the elections. Specifically, the PDP urged citizens to safeguard their votes and ensure that presiding officers promptly transmit Form EC8A after results are announced at polling units.
Political observers note that the controversy surrounding the withdrawals has intensified debate over internal party cohesion and the broader political dynamics in the FCT. With the elections approaching, attention remains focused on how the situation will affect voter turnout, party performance, and overall electoral credibility.
