Prominent activist Aisha Yesufu has stepped down from the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC) senatorial race for the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) after the party reportedly decided not to hold primaries for the seat.
The development, confirmed on Friday, effectively ends her short-lived ambition to contest for the FCT senatorial ticket ahead of the 2027 general elections.
Party Decision Alters Political Calculations
According to Yesufu, the NDC leadership resolved not to conduct internal elections for the senatorial seat in the FCT, a decision that automatically reshaped the contest within the party.
She noted that while senatorial primaries were suspended, the party would still proceed with House of Representatives primaries in the FCT.
“Our party has decided not to conduct primaries for the Senatorial seat in FCT Abuja. It however intends to conduct primaries for House of Representatives! Go ahead and make your choice known!” she said.
Supporters Urged to Remain Focused
Despite stepping back from the race, Yesufu urged her supporters not to lose focus, stressing that the broader political goal ahead of 2027 remains unchanged.
She encouraged members of her support base to continue mobilising around wider electoral participation, particularly at the presidential level.
“I urge each and everyone of you to remain calm and focus on the bigger picture which is the presidential election. Nigeria will be OK!” she added.
Campaign Movement and Grassroots Engagement
Yesufu also expressed appreciation to supporters of the #AishaForSenate movement, describing their backing as encouraging during her brief campaign period.
She said she would continue her engagements across the six area councils of the FCT, promising to sustain her advocacy and grassroots outreach despite withdrawing from the race.
“In the coming week I will be returning back to all the 6 Area Councils God willing to appreciate them for the warm welcome and continue to forge ahead for a #BetterFCT,” she said.
Political Realignments Within NDC
Yesufu had only recently declared her intention to contest the FCT Senate seat on May 6, shortly after joining the NDC from the African Democratic Congress (ADC), citing a desire to participate more directly in political leadership.
Her withdrawal comes amid speculation of internal realignments within the party over the FCT senatorial structure, although the NDC has not issued an official clarification.
The development adds another layer to early political positioning ahead of the 2027 general elections, as parties continue internal restructuring and candidate selection processes.
