NDC Supporters Protest in Abuja, Demand Ezekiel Musa Dalhatu Declared FCT Senatorial Candidate

Supporters of the Nigeria Democratic Congress took to the streets of Abuja on Wednesday, demanding that party leadership formally declare Ezekiel Musa Dalhatu as the party's candidate for the Federal Capital Territory senatorial race. The protest marked an escalating confrontation within the party over candidate selection, with demonstrators calling for immediate clarity ahead of upcoming elections.

Supporters Flood Abuja Streets

The demonstration drew hundreds of NDC faithful who gathered outside the party headquarters in the Maitama district. Protesters carried placards bearing Dalhatu's name and chanted slogans demanding swift action from party officials. Witnesses said the crowd remained peaceful throughout the morning but expressed frustration over what they described as unnecessary delays in confirming the aspirant.

"We have waited long enough," one supporter told reporters at the scene. "The party must listen to its members and give us our candidate now." The supporter, who declined to be named, added that grassroots members had worked for months to build support for Dalhatu across the FCT.

Who Is Ezekiel Musa Dalhatu

Dalhatu has positioned himself as a candidate focused on addressing economic challenges facing ordinary residents of the capital territory. Party insiders describe him as a loyalist who spent years building local structures ahead of this electoral cycle. His supporters argue he represents the best chance for NDC to make inroads in a traditionally competitive senatorial district.

The aspirant has reportedly been meeting with community leaders and party stakeholders in recent weeks, presenting his vision for representation focused on infrastructure development and youth employment. Those close to his campaign say he believes the FCT deserves a senator who understands daily struggles faced by residents across the territory's multiple districts.

Why the Delay in Declaring a Candidate

Party officials have not publicly explained why Dalhatu remains unconfirmed despite apparent grassroots backing. Sources within the NDC hierarchy suggest internal consultations are ongoing, though critics claim the delay reflects broader disagreements about electoral strategy. Some party members argue leadership may be considering alternative candidates with higher name recognition, a prospect that has angered Dalhatu's base.

The uncertainty places NDC in a difficult position as rival parties accelerate their campaigns in the FCT. Observers note that prolonged disputes over candidate selection typically damage a party's electoral prospects, alienating core supporters who feel their preferred nominee has been sidelined.

Community Response and Stakes

Residents of Abuja have watched the internal dispute with growing concern. The FCT senatorial seat carries significant influence over federal resource allocation and local governance matters affecting millions in the capital territory. Political analysts suggest that prolonged uncertainty could undermine voter confidence in NDC's ability to mount a serious challenge.

"People want to know who will represent them," said a local political commentator monitoring the situation. "When parties cannot resolve their own candidate issues, it sends a bad signal to voters."

What Happens Next

NDC officials have indicated they expect to announce a formal position within the coming week. Party spokespersons have urged supporters to remain calm while internal processes conclude. However, demonstrators have warned they will escalate actions if no announcement comes by the end of the month.

The next seven days will determine whether party leadership can satisfy grassroots demands without triggering a public split. Dalhatu himself has maintained a low public profile since the protest began, though allies say he remains confident in his position within the party structure.

Watch for an official announcement from NDC headquarters in Abuja, expected no later than Friday. If declared as candidate, Dalhatu would face candidates from established parties in what is expected to be one of the most competitive senatorial races in the territory's recent history.