Senator Ireti Kingibe joins ADC, targeting Abuja Municipal Area Council as first battleground ahead of the 2026 FCT area council elections
Senator representing the Federal Capital Territory, Ireti Kingibe, has formally joined the African Democratic Congress, declaring the Abuja Municipal Area Council as the party’s first political battleground ahead of the February 2026 area council elections.
Also read: Wike Dares Kingibe to Face Abuja Residents over Tinubu Minister Critique
Kingibe completed her registration at Wuse Ward in AMAC, describing her defection from the Labour Party as the start of an intense political contest rather than a symbolic gesture.
Addressing journalists and party supporters, the senator said the ADC must target all six area councils in the FCT, beginning with her home base.
“We have a ‘battle’ and a lot of work ahead of us. We have six area councils, Mr Chairman, that must be ours. It starts with AMAC,” she said.
The event also unveiled the ADC’s chairmanship and councillorship candidates across the territory, with party flags presented as a signal of readiness for the upcoming polls.
Former National Chairman of the ADC, Ralph Nwosu, described Kingibe’s defection as a significant boost for the party’s profile in the FCT and a reflection of broader national realignment driven by public dissatisfaction with the status quo.
“This is the FCT, and for the number one senator in Abuja to be declaring for the party is a very warm sign. ADC has become the leading party in Nigeria,” Nwosu said, while cautioning that the party would remain selective, admitting only those motivated by public service rather than personal gain.
ADC National Treasurer, Mani Ahmed, added that the party is fully prepared for elections at both local and national levels, positioning itself as an alternative to existing governance patterns and responding to widespread public discontent.
From the constituency perspective, Emmanuel Destiny, Head of Senator Kingibe’s constituency office, said the defection marks a new political chapter for FCT residents, particularly women and youth.
He urged citizens to rally behind Kingibe, highlighting public frustration with insecurity, economic hardship, and governance issues.
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Political analysts suggest that Kingibe’s move could significantly reshape the balance of power in the FCT, intensifying competition ahead of the 2026 area council polls and the 2027 general elections.
