Tensions are mounting within the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) chapter of the All Progressives Congress (APC) following a formal challenge to the emergence of the party’s newly elected chairman, Mr Tanko Ishaku Yamawo.
Aspirant Alhaji Aminu Abubakar has submitted a petition to the party’s Appeal Committee, disputing the process that led to Mr Yamawo’s victory at the recently concluded FCT congress.
In a petition dated 19 April and addressed to the chairman of the APC FCT Executives Congress Appeal Committee, Abubakar alleges that the state chairman’s emergence via a so-called consensus arrangement lacked transparency, proper consultation, and adherence to due process.
While acknowledging that the party’s national leadership encourages consensus to avoid internal strife, the aspirant insists that such arrangements must comply with democratic principles and the APC constitution. He explains that all contenders, himself included, were initially engaged in consultations towards a consensus candidate, and that he had campaigned actively for over two months in line with party guidelines.
However, Abubakar claims 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 maintains that a valid consensus candidate can emerge only through mutual agreement among all aspirants, stressing that any arrangement imposed without such consent is invalid. The aspirant further alleges that he learned of the outcome through unofficial channels, with party members informing him that the inauguration of the new leadership had already begun.
Describing the process as a breach of internal party democracy, Abubakar cites violations of the party’s constitution, denial of a fair hearing, and what he terms an arbitrary exercise of power. He urges the Appeal Committee to nullify the state chairman’s emergence, set aside the congress outcome for that position, and order a fresh process in line with party rules. Alternatively, he calls for a transparent and inclusive consensus process involving all aspirants and based on mutual agreement.
Abubakar states that his petition is driven not only by personal concerns but also by a commitment to fairness, the rule of law, and the long-term stability of the party. Copies have been sent to key APC officials, including the National Chairman, National Secretary, National Organising Secretary, National Legal Adviser, and the Zonal Vice Chairman (North Central).
At the time of filing this report, the party had not issued an official response to the allegations.
Meanwhile, former Minister of State for the FCT, Dr Ramatu Tijjani Aliyu, has welcomed Mr Yamawo’s emergence, describing it as a reflection of the confidence reposed in his record of service, leadership, and enduring commitment to the APC’s growth in the territory.
She noted that his emergence comes at a critical time for the party, offering 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 APC state chairman for the FCT. This well-deserved recognition reflects the confidence in your service, leadership, dedication, and longstanding commitment to our party’s growth in the territory,” 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.”
She urged the new chairman to remain steadfast in promoting dialogue, fairness, and collective progress, adding that the task ahead requires wisdom, resilience, and a clear vision to consolidate past achievements while building a stronger, more vibrant structure for the future. Dr Aliyu assured Mr Yamawo of her continued support and wished him a successful tenure.
