Aisha Yesufu withdraws from NDC FCT Senate race, cites party decision

Abdullateef Fowewe

Aisha Yesufu, a recent recruit to the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC), has withdrawn her bid for the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) senatorial ticket after the party announced it would not hold primaries for that seat.

Yesufu declared her interest in the 2027 FCT senatorial race on May 6, shortly after defecting from the African Democratic Congress (ADC) to the NDC.

Her move followed a period in which the party’s internal dynamics were widely discussed, with reports saying the NDC had effectively ceded the FCT ticket to Amanda Pam, an aspirant who had been with the party before Yesufu’s arrival.

In a statement released on Friday, Yesufu said the party’s decision ended her immediate ambition for the position.

“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.

Yesufu urged her supporters to remain composed and to keep focus on wider goals ahead of the 2027 general election.

“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 said, adding her gratitude to backers: “I appreciate all your support, dedication and commitment towards #AishaForSenate project.”

Despite stepping back from the senatorial contest, Yesufu said she intends to remain active in the FCT and continue grassroots engagement.

“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.