Veteran journalist and former presidential aide, Dr. Reuben Abati, has criticised the African Democratic Congress (ADC) for failing to convert its campaign efforts into electoral victories in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Area Council elections.
Speaking on ARISE Television’s Morning Show on Monday, Abati said the outcome of the Abuja polls suggests that the contests were decisively concluded at the ballot, urging political parties to reassess their strategies ahead of future elections.
According to him, despite visible campaign activities by the ADC in the FCT, the party was unable to secure electoral gains, a development he said should prompt internal review and strategic recalibration.
Turning to developments in Kano State, Abati noted that the All Progressives Congress (APC) secured victories in two recent by-elections. He observed that, on the surface, the results indicate that Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf demonstrated political strength in the state.
However, Abati projected that the 2027 general elections could witness widespread post-election litigation. He pointed out that some candidates have already expressed intentions to challenge results in court.
He cited reactions from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), which has described the outcomes as evidence of a resurgence, claiming victories in Gwagwalada, Kuje, and two other local councils in the FCT. He also referenced Amos Paul, a candidate in the Abuja Municipal Area Council election, who has indicated plans to seek legal redress.
Abati expressed scepticism that recent electoral reforms would substantially curb malpractice, reduce the influence of money in politics, or eliminate irregularities in future polls.
“If anyone thought that the 2026 electoral framework would simplify the process, reduce rigging, or curb the influence of money, that would be too much to hope for,” he said.
He urged all stakeholders, including parties that underperformed in the FCT elections, to draw lessons from the outcome and reposition strategically ahead of subsequent contests.
“What that will imply in the future is something we cannot say,” Abati added.
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