ABUJA COUNCIL ELECTION LIVE: Atiku, Obi, Nigerians back Moses Paul as AMAC chairman

Today, all eyes are on the Federal Capital Territory as voters across Abuja’s six area councils head to the polls in a landmark local government election. While the stakes are high across the FCT, the spotlight remains on the Abuja Municipal Area Council (AMAC) chairmanship, where ADC candidate Moses Ogidi Paul is vying for leadership.

IDOMA VOICE reports that across all six area councils, voters prepare to cast ballots that will determine local leadership for the next four years.

Yet, it is AMAC that has captured national attention, with ADC candidate Paul emerging as the frontrunner in a contest that has drawn endorsements from prominent figures and widespread public interest.

Moses Paul’s campaign has resonated widely. Endorsed by Atiku Abubakar, Peter Obi, and a growing number of ordinary Nigerians, he has positioned himself as a people-centered leader, promising practical solutions to issues ranging from waste management and infrastructure to education and healthcare.

In recent street campaigns across AMAC wards, Paul told supporters, “I have walked your streets, I have heard your pain, and I am ready to serve.
“AMAC is not just a council. AMAC is the heartbeat of our nation’s capital. And if the heartbeat is weak, the entire body feels it. But if the heartbeat is strong, disciplined, and full of life, the whole nation will feel its strength.
We stand today at a defining moment.

“Today, you will not just vote for a chairman. You will vote for the future you want your children to inherit. You will vote to say that competence matters. That integrity matters. That accountability matters.

“You will vote to say that leadership must once again become a sacred trust. I do not offer you perfection. I offer you dedication. I do not offer you empty promises. I offer you transparent service. I do not offer you politics. I offer you purpose.”
However, one factor that may count against him is that he is not an indigene of Abuja.

Hailing from Otukpa, in Benue State, Paul will rely heavily on his campaign organization and cross-community appeal to overcome perceptions that local leadership should be held by a native.

Another variable in the equation is FCT Minister Nyesom Wike, widely regarded as a dominant and sometimes controversial political figure.
Analysts suggest that this election represents Wike’s biggest test of popularity since assuming office as minister, with his influence stretching across AMAC.
While the PDP aspirtants in AMAC reportedly stepped down, observers say Wike’s presence and endorsement could still sway undecided voters.

While all FCT councils are going to the polls, AMAC serves as the focal point of attention, IDOMA VOICE.

As the seat of Nigeria’s administrative and political capital, control of AMAC is seen as symbolic, and practical, for local governance and grassroots political influence.

The election will also test the capacity of political parties and candidates to mobilize voters, ensure compliance with electoral rules, and deliver results free of disputes.

In particular, ADC’s campaign machinery has been praised for its organization and grassroots outreach, while other parties, including the APC, are watching closely to retain influence in the council.

Election observers and civic groups have warned that any attempts at manipulation or rigging will be unacceptable. Security has been intensified across Abuja, including in AMAC, to guarantee a smooth process. Analysts note that vigilance by citizens, party agents, and election monitors will be critical to ensuring credibility.

Political commentators suggest that Moses Paul’s popularity, combined with his ability to unite diverse constituencies within AMAC, positions him as a strong contender for victory, IDOMA VOICE

However, observers caution that voter turnout, electoral discipline, and last-minute developments could influence the outcome.

James Odo, a political analyst in Karshi, said: “AMAC is the centerpiece of this election. Whoever controls it will have both political visibility and influence in FCT politics. Moses Paul has momentum, but the voters will ultimately decide if this is a historic shift or continuity.”