TD Abuja, Nigeria — Dr. Moses Paul, the African Democratic Congress (ADC) candidate in the recently concluded Abuja Municipal Area Council (AMAC) Chairmanship Election, has formally announced the end of his legal and political contest following the judgment of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Area Council Election Appeal Tribunal.
His statement, released today, marks a deliberate closure to a journey that began with the February 21, 2026 polls and extended through weeks of legal proceedings.
Legal Battles and Democratic Principles
Dr. Paul explained that his decision to pursue the matter from the Election Tribunal to the Appeal Tribunal was not driven by personal ambition but by principle.
He emphasized that democracy thrives only when citizens insist that the law be obeyed and every vote counted.
Unlike most election petitions in Nigeria, which may proceed to the Supreme Court, the Appeal Tribunal serves as the final judicial authority in disputes arising from FCT Area Council elections.
Dr. Paul noted that it was important, for posterity and the development of Nigeria’s electoral jurisprudence, to exhaust every lawful step available.
One unusual aspect of the proceedings, he observed, was the Tribunal’s decision to deliver judgment while reserving its reasons for a later date.
Traditionally, only the Supreme Court has exercised such latitude.
This, he argued, raised questions about judicial procedure and precedent.
Equally significant was his contention that the Election Tribunal lacked jurisdiction as prescribed by the Electoral Act 2026.
According to him, the mandatory composition of the Tribunal was not complied with.
Since jurisdiction is the foundation of any judicial process, this issue remains a matter of principle that future reforms and legal scholars may continue to examine.
Reflections on the Electoral Process
Beyond the courtroom, Dr. Paul reiterated his belief that the voices of many AMAC residents were not faithfully reflected in the final outcome.
He cited reports from polling agents, independent collation, and other information gathered during the electoral process.
Nonetheless, he stressed that he holds no bitterness or resentment toward anyone involved.
“Service is greater than office,” he declared.
He added that his commitment to AMAC, the FCT, and Nigeria has never depended on holding political office but on serving people through various platforms.
Commitment Beyond Politics
Dr. Paul announced that he will continue his work through the Free Nigeria Foundation, his political party, and other legitimate platforms.
He highlighted areas such as education, healthcare, youth development, civic engagement, humanitarian service, and public advocacy as avenues through which he intends to contribute to nation-building.
He expressed deep gratitude to members of the ADC, volunteers, campaign coordinators, donors, observers, and supporters across the twelve wards of AMAC.
He also extended appreciation to prominent political figures including Mr. Peter Obi, Alhaji Atiku Abubakar, HE. Rotimi Amaechi, Senator David Mark, Senator Ireti Heebah Kingibe, Dr. Kashim Imam, Gov. Rauf Aregbesola, and Chief Ralph Nwosu, among others, for their support of democratic ideals during the process.
Acknowledgment of Institutions and Opponents
Dr. Paul also thanked the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), security agencies, election officials, the Honourable Minister of the FCT, the President of Nigeria, leaders of other political parties, fellow candidates, and all who played a role in the democratic exercise.
He noted that democracy is strengthened not only by those who agree with us but also by those who challenge us.
“To those who voted for me, thank you for your confidence. To those who did not, thank you for participating in our democracy.
“To those who opposed me politically, I bear no resentment.
“Our democracy is richer because citizens are free to hold different opinions,” he said.
Closing Words of Hope
Dr. Paul concluded his statement with a message of gratitude, peace, and hope.
He emphasized that the campaign was never merely about winning an election but about proving that ideas, integrity, and institutions matter.
He affirmed: “Nigeria is greater than any election, any political party, any office, or any individual.
“Our democratic journey is still unfolding, and I remain convinced that truth, justice, constitutionalism, and the will of the people will ultimately prevail.”
He pledged to continue serving and building, expressing enduring faith in the promise of Nigeria. His final words were a prayer for AMAC, the FCT, and the Federal Republic of Nigeria.
