Activist and politician Aisha Yesufu has pulled out of the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC) senatorial race for the Federal Capital Territory (FCT).
In a statement released on Friday, Yesufu announced that the NDC would not conduct primaries for the FCT Senate seat, bringing her 2027 senatorial aspiration to an end.
“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.
She called on her supporters to remain composed and keep their attention on the larger political goal ahead of the 2027 elections.
“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, while thanking supporters of the #AishaForSenate movement for their dedication and support.
Yesufu also promised to continue engaging with residents across the FCT, stating that she would visit all six area councils in the coming week to express gratitude for their reception and sustain her advocacy for a better capital city.
“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 added.
The activist had formally declared her intention to contest the 2027 FCT Senate seat on May 6 after defecting to the NDC from the African Democratic Congress (ADC). At the time, she said her decision was influenced by the leadership opportunities and experience she had gained within the party.
Her withdrawal follows speculation that the party had reserved the FCT Senate ticket for Amanda Pam, a party member who had joined before Yesufu’s defection. However, the NDC has not officially responded to the claims.
