APC Dominates FCT Elections; PDP Claims Gwagwalada Win

The elections held on February 21, 2026, in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Kano, and Rivers State were seen as a litmus test for the Electoral Act 2026, which was signed into law by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu on February 18, 2026. The elections aimed to ensure free and fair electoral processes in Nigeria.

In Abuja, the All Progressives Congress (APC) won five out of six municipal areas, while the People's Democratic Party (PDP) claimed victory in Gwagwalada. The results indicated a resurgence for the PDP, despite claims from the APC of electoral manipulation.

The elections also raised concerns regarding the management of the electoral process by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) and the role of security agencies. Allegations of vote rigging and voter suppression were reported, particularly in Kuje Central and other areas.

The overall voter turnout and the performance of various political parties highlighted the competitive nature of the elections ahead of the general elections in 2027.