Gwagwalada, FCT — Tensions are rising ahead of the 2026 Area Council elections in the Federal Capital Territory, as original inhabitants of Gwagwalada Area Council have voiced strong opposition to the rumored decision by the All Progressives Congress (APC) to hand its chairmanship ticket to an individual alleged to hail from outside the FCT, specifically of Fulani (Fulfude) origin and reportedly linked to Kano State.
In a statement obtained from community voice Dobiza Dobiza 1, the sentiment was unequivocal: the natives of Gwagwalada are demanding that the APC respects the historical and cultural identity of the council by allowing an indigene to lead. The post, which has been circulating on social media platforms, warned that the ruling party risks alienating its grassroots support if it proceeds with the alleged selection.
“Except APC wants to lose the 2026 elections in Gwagwalada Area Council,” the statement began, “we cannot afford to entrust Gwagwalada into the hands of a non-indigene. Least of all, someone who originates from Fulani (Fulfube).”
The post suggested that the selection of a non-native candidate—particularly one reportedly influenced by former Kano State Governor and APC National Chairman, Abdullahi Ganduje—could further exacerbate national tensions around identity, security, and representation.
“No prophecy is needed to tell the source of security unrest as a national concern, particularly for the common man,” the statement added, hinting at broader national anxieties.
While reaffirming loyalty to the APC, the group stressed that the interest of Gwagwalada’s indigenous people must not be sacrificed for political arrangements that ignore ancestral and communal sensitivities.
“We love the party, APC. APC is our political identity. Gwagwalada is our home and we can’t afford to trade it with our ancestral conscience,” the statement read.
The warning concluded with a strategic reminder: the 2026 Area Council elections will directly impact APC’s standing ahead of the 2027 general elections.
“This is not a threat but a wake-up call to the party’s leadership,” the statement declared. “The results of the Area Council elections shall determine the fate of the 2027 general elections.”
Community members have since begun mobilizing to demand internal democracy within the party and a commitment to zoning agreements that reflect the wishes of Gwagwalada’s indigenous population.
As of press time, no official statement has been released by the APC at the Area Council, FCT, or National level regarding the concerns raised.
Chronicles Reporters will continue to monitor developments in this story.