Moses Paul Bows Out of AMAC Election Dispute, Vows to Keep Serving

Dr. Moses Paul, the African Democratic Congress (ADC) candidate in the February 2026 Abuja Municipal Area Council (AMAC) chairmanship election, has formally ended his legal challenge to the outcome of the poll, declaring that he is closing the chapter on the election and redirecting his efforts toward public service and nation-building.

In a statement issued on Thursday, Paul said his decision followed the judgment of the FCT Area Council Election Appeal Tribunal, which represents the final judicial authority in disputes arising from Area Council elections in the Federal Capital Territory.

He explained that his decision to challenge the election results from the Election Tribunal to the Appeal Tribunal was driven by the need to uphold democratic principles rather than personal ambition.

According to him, the legal action sought to ensure compliance with the law and reinforce the principle that every valid vote should count in Nigeria's electoral process.

Paul maintained that one of the major issues raised during the proceedings was the jurisdiction of the Election Tribunal, arguing that its composition did not comply with the provisions of the Electoral Act 2026.

He stated that jurisdiction remains the foundation of every judicial proceeding and expressed the belief that the legal questions raised during the case would continue to attract attention from scholars and future electoral reform advocates.

The former chairmanship candidate also questioned the Appeal Tribunal's decision to deliver its judgment while reserving its reasons for a later date, describing the development as unusual within Nigeria's judicial tradition.

Despite accepting the finality of the tribunal's judgment, Paul insisted that reports from his polling agents and his campaign's independent collation suggested that the wishes of many AMAC voters were not fully reflected in the declared outcome.

He, however, stressed that he harboured no bitterness over the outcome, saying there comes a time when service to the people must take precedence over the pursuit of political office.

Paul pledged to continue contributing to national development through the Free Nigeria Foundation, the ADC and other lawful platforms, with a focus on education, healthcare, youth empowerment, civic engagement, humanitarian services and public advocacy.

He expressed appreciation to members of the ADC, volunteers, campaign officials, donors, supporters across the 12 wards of AMAC, members of his legal team, civil society organisations, election observers and the media for their support throughout the campaign and legal process.

Paul also acknowledged several political leaders, including Peter Obi, Atiku Abubakar, Rotimi Amaechi, David Mark, Ireti Kingibe and Rauf Aregbesola for their encouragement during the election.

He further commended the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), security agencies, election officials, the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, President Bola Tinubu, other political parties and his fellow candidates for their respective roles in the electoral process.

Reaffirming his commitment to democracy, Paul said the campaign was never solely about winning an election but about promoting integrity, accountability, strong institutions and responsible leadership.

He concluded by expressing confidence that truth, justice, constitutionalism and the will of the people would ultimately prevail, while pledging to continue serving the people of AMAC, the FCT and Nigeria.