A Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) presidential aspirant, Dr Gbenga Olawepo-Hashim, has described the All Progressives Congress’ (APC) recent wins in the Federal Capital Territory Area Council elections as misleading, emphasizing that the FCT remains a stronghold of the PDP.

The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) had earlier declared APC winners in five of the six chairmanship contests, including Abuja Municipal, Abaji, Bwari, Kwali, and Kuje, while the PDP won the Gwagwalada Area Council.

Speaking to PDP stalwarts in Abuja on Thursday, Olawepo-Hashim argued that many of the APC winners were former PDP members who switched allegiance, creating an illusion of APC dominance.

“In reality, the contest was PDP versus PDP. What we witnessed was the deployment of massive resources and state institutions to manufacture the appearance of competition,” he said.

Olawepo-Hashim urged party members to remain united, stressing that authentic political strength is built on grassroots support rather than manipulated outcomes.

“Authentic leadership cannot be imposed. It is built on the trust and will of the people,” he added.

The meeting, which reviewed the conduct and results of the FCT polls, drew PDP chairmen from all six Area Councils, ward chairmen, and members of the State Executive Committee.

FCT PDP Chairman, Ismail Dogara, and PDP Board of Trustees member, Isa Dobi, commended Olawepo-Hashim for his consistent support of party candidates during the elections. They also called for the release of party members reportedly detained by security agencies.

Dogara moved a motion reaffirming the chapter’s support for Olawepo-Hashim’s 2027 presidential bid, which was seconded by Isa Dobi and endorsed by participants at the meeting.