The Arewa People’s Forum (APF), FCT Chapter, has raised concerns over alleged tensions within the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC) following its primaries held in Abuja on May 29, 2026.
In a statement on Tuesday, June 9, 2026, signed by its chairman, Musa Aliyu, the group accused the NDC presidential candidate, Peter Obi, of backing alleged moves to alter the outcome of the exercise, particularly in the Federal Capital Territory.
The APF said the primaries produced Mrs. Iyabo Pam as senatorial candidate for the South, Rep Hassan Ahmed Grema for the House of Representatives seat representing the North, and Rep Ahmadu Sule Kamal for another FCT federal constituency under a zoning arrangement concluded before the vote.
It said the process followed internal party procedures, including nomination purchases, campaigns, and delegate voting on May 29, 2026.
However, it alleged that discussions within party circles were underway to replace Grema with Hon. Uchenna Harris Okonkwo, also known as Uche Harry, a serving lawmaker from Anambra State.
READ ALSO: Don’t Give Peter Obi’s Camp Too Much Influence, Abure Warns NDC
The group described the alleged move as a violation of the zoning agreement and a breach of the outcome of the May 29, 2026 primaries.
It warned that the FCT should not become a fallback zone for politicians who failed to secure tickets in their home constituencies, saying such actions could undermine internal democracy and party credibility.
The APF also cautioned that any attempt to remove Grema, whom it described as a key Hausa community figure in Abuja and son of the Sarkin Hausawa, could heighten tensions within the party.
It urged the NDC leadership to respect the May 29, 2026 primaries and avoid what it called backroom interference in candidate selection.
The group warned that overturning delegate decisions could damage trust in the party and trigger avoidable internal crisis in the FCT and beyond.