Abuja, Federal Capital Territory — February 22, 2026
The African Democratic Congress (ADC) candidate in the Abuja Municipal Area Council (AMAC) chairmanship election, Dr. Moses Paul, has rejected the outcome of the February 21 poll, alleging widespread irregularities and accusing the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) of undermining the democratic process.
Addressing journalists in Abuja on Sunday, Dr. Paul said the conduct and outcome of the election did not reflect the will of the people. He described the exercise as deeply flawed and condemned what he termed a “blatant disregard” for voters’ sensibilities by the electoral umpire.
While maintaining that his political movement had secured what he called the “sacred mandate” of AMAC residents, the candidate said the officially declared results were inconsistent with the realities observed across polling units.
Dr. Paul cited several alleged irregularities, including restriction of movement through the imposition of a curfew, intimidation and attacks on ADC members by security agencies, widespread vote buying in multiple wards, and voter suppression resulting from the late arrival of election materials in key polling units such as Kabusa. He also alleged cases of alteration and mutilation of polling unit results.
The ADC candidate further referenced the death of Musa Abubakar at a polling unit in Gwagwa, claiming the incident occurred while the deceased was attempting to protect his vote. Dr. Paul said he had visited the family and pledged scholarship support for Abubakar’s children. He called on relevant authorities to investigate the circumstances surrounding the death and ensure justice is served.
“These actions undermine the integrity of the electoral process and the confidence of the people in our democracy,” he stated.
Despite his rejection of the results, Dr. Paul told supporters that the movement backing his candidacy transcends electoral outcomes. He described it as a people-driven cause rooted in conviction and sacrifice rather than political office.
He expressed appreciation to voters, party leadership, volunteers, youths, women, and community elders across areas including Karshi, Wuse, Nyanya, and Gui, commending their participation and resilience during the electoral process.
Dr. Paul also thanked the leadership of the African Democratic Congress (ADC) for what he described as its principled stance and commitment to a different kind of politics.
Concluding his remarks, he reaffirmed his commitment to democratic ideals and accountability to his supporters, declaring that the election would mark the beginning of what he called a “permanent awakening” in AMAC.
INEC has yet to respond to the allegations raised by the ADC candidate as of press time.
