**FCT Council Elections: PDP Blows Hot as Two Chairmanship Candidates Stepped Down for APC** The stage is set for the highly anticipated Federal Capital Territory (FCT) council elections, scheduled to hold on Saturday, February 21, 2026. However, the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has taken umbrage with the sudden withdrawal of two of its chairmanship candidates, Godson Nemieboka and another for the Abuja Municipal Area Council (AMAC) and Bwari area councils, respectively. In a shocking twist, these candidates stepped down for their All Progressives Congress (APC) counterparts, allegedly at the behest of the FCT Minister, Nyesom Wike. According to reports, Wike brokered the deal, which has left the PDP reeling. The party's National Publicity Secretary, Comrade Ini Ememobong, has condemned the move as "shameful" and "undemocratic." Ememobong emphasized that the PDP did not approve the stepping down of these candidates, which he believes undermines the true essence of democracy. "Democracy thrives on healthy electoral contests, not forced or induced consensus," he emphasized. The PDP's stance on this issue assumes significance, given the party's history of contesting FCT council elections. With the council polls drawing near, the party sees this move as a calculated attempt to rig the election. As the party prepares for the FCT council elections, its supporters are bracing themselves for a possible showdown with the APC. The PDP's opposition to this move is a testament to its commitment to upholding democratic principles and ensuring a level playing field for all candidates. The implications of this development are far-reaching, and many Nigerians are watching with bated breath. As we approach the FCT council elections, one question remains: will the PDP be able to overcome these challenges and emerge victorious, or will the APC's alleged machinations pay off? Only time will tell.