Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) presidential aspirant Gbenga Hashim won his unit at Big Cele Settlement, Dutse Alhaji, in Bwari Area Council of the Federal ’apital Territory (FCT) during Saturday’s area council elections.

The outcome comes amid claims that the FCT Minister, Nyesom Wike, had influenced the withdrawal of a PDP candidate on the eve of the election, allegations that heightened political tensions ahead of the polls.

Results from Polling Unit 076 in Big Cele Settlement showed a commanding performance by the PDP in both the chairmanship and councillorship elections.

In the chairmanship contest, the PDP secured 74 votes, while the All Progressives Congress (APC) polled 2 votes, and the African Democratic Congress (ADC) garnered 3 votes.

For the councillorship election, the PDP recorded 75 votes, with the APC scoring 4 votes and the ADC 2 votes. Other political parties failed to secure any votes at the unit.

The results represent an almost complete sweep for the PDP in the settlement, highlighting what observers described as strong grassroots mobilisation and sustained engagement within the community.

Speaking shortly after the declaration of results at the polling unit, Hashim expressed appreciation to residents for their peaceful participation and support.

“This victory belongs to the people. It reflects consistent engagement, listening leadership, and our shared commitment to progress at the grassroots,” he said.

Election monitors at the unit described the margin of victory as politically significant, noting that such dominance at the polling unit level signals organisational strength and voter loyalty within the ward.

The election at the unit was reported to be peaceful and orderly, with security personnel present and electoral officials conducting the process in line with established guidelines.

Stakeholders within the party said the outcome reinforces the PDP’s grassroots presence in parts of the FCT and may serve as a morale boost ahead of future electoral contests, including the 2027 general elections.

The FCT Area Council elections, conducted across the six area councils, are widely regarded as an important indicator of party mobilisation capacity and political momentum in the nation’s capital.

The election also served as a test for the new leadership of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) and its preparation for the 2027 general elections. (Saturday Tribune)