Veteran grassroots mobiliser Amanda Pam has emerged victorious in the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC) Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Senatorial primaries, defeating prominent activist Aisha Yesufu and other aspirants ahead of the 2027 general elections.
Key Highlights
•Amanda Pam defeats Aisha Yesufu in NDC FCT Senatorial primaries
•Party delegates reportedly favoured grassroots structure and long-term loyalty
•Aisha Yesufu recently joined the NDC after leaving ADC
•Amanda Pam expected to fly NDC flag for FCT Senate seat in 2027
•Social media reactions trail outcome of the primary election
•Analysts say local political structures proved decisive in the contest
The primary election, conducted amid growing political activities ahead of 2027, underscored the influence of established party networks and grassroots mobilisation within the FCT political landscape.
While Aisha Yesufu entered the race with strong public recognition due to her activism in the #BringBackOurGirls movement and support for Labour Party presidential candidate Peter Obi during the 2023 elections, Amanda Pam relied heavily on years of political engagement and deep connections across Abuja’s area councils.
Who Is Amanda Pam?
Popularly known among supporters as “Mama Amanda,” Amanda Pam is regarded within party circles as a longtime grassroots mobiliser with extensive political experience in the FCT.
Party insiders describe her as a respected political figure who has built strong relationships with women groups, youths, and community leaders across Gwagwalada, Abaji, Bwari, Kuje, Kwali, and Abuja Municipal Area Council.
Unlike Yesufu, who joined the NDC in May 2026 after leaving the African Democratic Congress (ADC), Pam was seen by many delegates as a loyal party figure with longstanding commitment to grassroots politics.
Her emergence is already being interpreted by political observers as proof that delegate-based primaries still favour candidates with strong local political structures over social media popularity or national visibility.
How the NDC Primary Unfolded
Ahead of the exercise, Aisha Yesufu had campaigned on governance reforms, improved representation for FCT residents, infrastructure development, and youth empowerment.
She had also urged party members not to rely on popularity alone, encouraging supporters to actively participate in the delegate process.
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However, party sources said many delegates preferred a candidate viewed as deeply rooted within the party system.
One party stakeholder reportedly argued that the senatorial ticket should go to “those who have worked for the party over the years.”
The outcome has since generated mixed reactions online, with supporters of Amanda Pam celebrating what they described as a victory for grassroots politics, while some supporters of Yesufu expressed disappointment over the result.
2027 FCT Senatorial Battle Takes Shape
With the primaries concluded, Amanda Pam is expected to become the NDC’s candidate for the FCT Senate race in 2027.
The contest is expected to be highly competitive, with incumbent Senator Ireti Kingibe already emerging in discussions as a major contender, alongside former Senator Philip Aduda.
Many believe that the outcome of the NDC primaries has further highlighted the importance of grassroots mobilisation, party loyalty, and local political structures in Nigeria’s evolving democratic process.
Although Aisha Yesufu is yet to issue a detailed statement following the loss, observers say her entry into partisan politics has already attracted significant national attention.
Amanda Pam’s victory now places her at the centre of the FCT political conversation as preparations gradually intensify ahead of the 2027 general elections.
