CONSTITUTIONAL IMPLICATIONS OF THE 25% THRESHOLD OF VOTES CAST IN THE FEDERAL CAPITAL TERRITORY IN PRESIDENTIAL ELECTION

Abstract

Obtaining at least 25% of votes cast in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) in presidential elections in Nigeria has been a contentious issue in Nigerian politics. This paper examines the significance and implications of this provision, which has sparked intense debate among political analysts, legal experts, and stakeholders. Through a critical analysis of the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria 1999, electoral laws, and past election results, this study concedes that FCT possesses no special character that could suggest or make it seek or sustain a status other than that of a Territory, or an entity superior to other States in Nigeria such that obtaining 25% in it would be a determining factor in the determination of the winner of a presidential election contested by more than two candidates.