The candidate of the All Progressives Grand Alliance (APGA) for the Abuja Municipal Area Council (AMAC) chairmanship has conceded the February 21 election to the All Progressives Congress (APC) victor, Christopher Maikalangu, and will not challenge the result.
Chukwu, the APGA candidate, issued a congratulatory statement on Tuesday following Maikalangu’s declaration as winner by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC). He explicitly stated he would not contest the outcome for any reason, framing elections as an avenue for public service rather than personal ambition. “Elections were all about service, not personal ambition,” he remarked.
He highlighted the peaceful and orderly conduct of the poll, noting that the security maintained during the campaign and on election day represented a victory for democracy. Chukwu stressed that while elections are a mechanism for service, such service cannot be imposed. He advised any aggrieved parties to pursue redress exclusively through lawful channels.
In his message, Chukwu pledged support for initiatives aimed at ensuring the success of the incoming administration. He urged Maikalangu to exercise humility and inclusiveness in governance, emphasizing that “AMAC belongs to all residents, irrespective of political, ethnic or religious affiliations.” The new leadership, he said, must reflect fairness, unity, and a commitment to the common good.
The AMAC election determines leadership for Nigeria’s capital territory local government area. Maikalangu’s victory extends the APC’s control in the region. Chukwu’s concession, devoid of any threat of legal challenge, contributes to a smooth post-election transition. His call for magnanimity in victory and inclusive governance underscores a focus on collective development over partisan division. The successful conduct of the poll, as noted by the candidate, also reinforces confidence in the electoral process ahead of future contests. The next step is the formal inauguration of the AMAC chairman, where the spirit of unity articulated by the losing candidate may be tested in practice.
