The political permutations of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) were on full display during the recently concluded Nigeria Football Coaches Association (NFCA) election, FCT Chapter.

FCT’s political landscape is broadly divided into two blocs: Abuja Central—comprising the Municipal and Bwari Area Councils—and Abuja South, which includes Gwagwalada, Kwali, Abaji, and Kuje. Historically, Abuja Central has dominated decision-making in the capital, a trend that extends into sports administration, leaving many in Abuja South feeling marginalized.

However, the tide began to shift in the lead-up to the FCT Coaches election. In a rare show of unity, the four Area Councils in Abuja South resolved to act as one bloc and speak with a single voice. Sources revealed that even before the release of electoral guidelines, the outgoing executive had expressed a desire to run an inclusive administration that would reflect the diversity of all six Area Councils.

To achieve this, positions within the NFCA executive were zoned accordingly. Yet, complications arose when the ratified electoral guidelines—approved by the National Executive Committee—were made public. Many of the Area Councils struggled to present candidates who met the eligibility criteria. Even among the qualified few, interest in contesting was low. Only Gwagwalada managed to produce a candidate for the Assistant Secretary role.

However, internal politics took a contentious turn. An influential member of the executive reportedly shifted support to a rival candidate from Abuja Central, undermining the earlier agreement. This move sparked outrage among Abuja South delegates.

Determined to assert their relevance, Abuja South mobilized its 10 votes—out of 22 total votes—to oppose candidates aligned with the perceived betrayal. Even an executive member running unopposed found themselves vulnerable, as the NFCA constitution requires returning officers to secure at least 75% of the total votes cast.

The election ultimately served as a lesson in political balance and electoral fairness. It underscored a key truth: no zone holds a monopoly on power, and in politics, every single vote matters.