Aisha Yesufu alleges NDC FCT Senate primary was predetermined, says process violated electoral guidelines

Prominent activist and politician Aisha Yesufu has accused the National Democratic Congress (NDC) of compromising its Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Senate primary process, alleging that the exercise was predetermined and failed to reflect the will of party members.

The allegations come amid growing political activities ahead of Nigeria’s 2027 general elections and have sparked fresh discussions about transparency, internal democracy, and compliance with electoral regulations within political parties.

In a statement posted on her X account and later amplified through media reports, Yesufu maintained that she remained in the race until the end and did not withdraw from the contest, contrary to some reports circulating online.

Aisha Yesufu Rejects Claims She Withdrew From FCT Senate Race

Addressing supporters and political observers, Yesufu firmly dismissed claims that she voluntarily exited the contest for the NDC FCT Senate ticket.

According to her, she contested the race from beginning to end and remained committed despite mounting concerns about the conduct of the primary.

“I did not quit, I did not drop out of the race. I stayed to the end,” she stated.

The activist explained that her decision to enter partisan politics was driven by a belief that meaningful change in Nigeria can only be achieved through active participation in governance and legislative processes.

She noted that she entered the race fully aware of the challenges associated with Nigeria’s political system but remained determined to compete without compromising her principles.

Allegations of Predetermined Outcome and Electoral Irregularities

A central part of Yesufu’s criticism focused on what she described as a predetermined process that allegedly undermined fair competition.

According to her account, repeated postponements, last-minute venue changes, and deviations from established party procedures characterized the primary exercise.

She further alleged that the process shifted from what should have been direct primaries at local government headquarters to a delegate-based system conducted at a centralized location.

Yesufu claimed that the eventual emergence of the candidate was not determined through an open voting process but through an affirmation conducted away from public scrutiny.

“The contest was not decided by delegates in the open; it was affirmed in a closed room, away from the people whose voices it was supposed to reflect,” she alleged.

The former aspirant argued that these developments contradicted the spirit of democratic participation and raised concerns about adherence to both party guidelines and the Electoral Act.

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Grassroots Campaign Built Strong Political Movement

Despite the outcome, Yesufu highlighted the strength of the grassroots network her campaign established across the Federal Capital Territory.

According to her, volunteers and supporters mobilized residents at ward and community levels, creating what she described as a credible political movement focused on transformational leadership.

She suggested that the growing popularity of her campaign altered the dynamics of the race and contributed to decisions that allegedly moved the process away from open competition.

The activist stated that the grassroots structures built during the campaign remain intact and could continue to influence future political engagements within the FCT.

Why Aisha Yesufu Is Not Going to Court

Although she strongly criticized the process, Yesufu revealed that she would not pursue legal action or file petitions challenging the outcome.

Instead, she said she chose to focus on lessons learned from participating directly in Nigeria’s political system.

According to her, the experience provided valuable insight into the realities of party politics and electoral structures that could not have been gained through observation alone.

“I leave this process with something far more valuable than a ticket; I leave with clarity,” she said.

Her decision not to litigate the matter contrasts with the growing trend of post-primary legal battles that often dominate Nigeria’s political landscape.

NDC’s Role Ahead of the 2027 Elections

Despite her criticism of the FCT primary process, Yesufu stopped short of condemning the party entirely.

She maintained that the NDC remains an important platform ahead of the 2027 elections and expressed appreciation for party members working toward political reform and transformational leadership.

The activist also clarified that her observations were limited to her experience in the FCT Senate primary and should not be interpreted as a blanket assessment of the party’s activities nationwide.

She thanked supporters, volunteers, and members of her campaign team for their commitment throughout the race, insisting that the political movement built around her candidacy remains strong.

“This is not the end. What we built, the network, the credibility, the grassroots trust, cannot be taken away in a backroom,” she said.

As of the time the reports were published, the NDC had not issued an official response to the allegations raised by Yesufu.

The controversy adds another layer of intrigue to the political landscape ahead of the 2027 general elections, where issues of internal party democracy and transparent candidate selection are expected to remain major talking points.

FAQ

Who is Aisha Yesufu?

Aisha Yesufu is a Nigerian activist, political advocate, and public commentator known for her involvement in governance, accountability campaigns, and democratic reform movements.

What did Aisha Yesufu say about the NDC primary?

She alleged that the NDC FCT Senate primary was compromised, predetermined, and failed to reflect the genuine will of party members.

Did Aisha Yesufu withdraw from the FCT Senate race?

No. Yesufu stated that she remained in the race until the conclusion of the process and did not withdraw or step down.

Why is Aisha Yesufu criticizing the NDC?

She claims the primary process involved repeated delays, venue changes, procedural irregularities, and a final candidate affirmation conducted outside an open contest.

Did Aisha Yesufu accuse NDC of violating the Electoral Act?

Yes. She suggested that aspects of the primary process did not align with party guidelines and the principles outlined in Nigeria’s Electoral Act.

Who won the NDC FCT Senate ticket?

Reports indicate that another candidate emerged as the party’s choice for the FCT Senate seat, although Yesufu argues the process was not transparent.

Is Aisha Yesufu taking legal action?

No. She has said she will not file petitions or pursue court action, choosing instead to focus on lessons learned from the experience.

What is the significance of the controversy?

The allegations have renewed debate about internal democracy, transparency, and fairness in political party primaries ahead of Nigeria’s 2027 elections.

Is Aisha Yesufu still a member of the NDC?

Based on her statements, she remains within the party and continues to acknowledge its broader role in the political landscape.

What does this mean for the 2027 elections?

The controversy highlights growing concerns about candidate selection processes and could influence discussions about electoral reforms and party governance as the 2027 elections approach.

What is Aisha Yesufu’s next political step?

She has not formally announced her next move but indicated that the grassroots network and political movement built during her campaign remain active.

Why is the NDC primary generating national attention?

The dispute involves one of Nigeria’s most recognizable activists and raises broader questions about transparency, democratic participation, and electoral credibility within political parties.