ADC Criticizes Wike's "War" Remark Ahead of FCT Council Polls

The African Democratic Congress (ADC) has voiced its strong disapproval of statements allegedly made by the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike. The party has labelled his reported declaration of "war" against candidates perceived as opposing President Tinubu in the upcoming FCT council elections as both reckless and inflammatory.

The ADC emphasized that Nigeria is a constitutional democracy guided by the ballot, not a theatre for political retribution. The electorate, the party asserted, holds the ultimate power to decide leadership through their votes.

In a formal statement released by its National Publicity Secretary, Mallam Bolaji Abdullahi, the ADC cautioned that such pronouncements could escalate political tensions and jeopardize the stability of the democratic system as the polls on February 21, 2026, approach.

The party reiterated that the decision on election outcomes rests solely with the Nigerian people, and not with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu or any minister.

The ADC has accused Wike and the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) of employing tactics intended to intimidate voters, suggesting this reflects a growing concern about their level of popular support.

"We consider the Minister’s declaration of ‘war’ against so-called anti-Tinubu candidates not only irresponsible, but dangerous in the current fragile atmosphere of our nation," the statement declared.

"At a time when Nigerians are grappling with economic hardship, insecurity and deep political distrust, the last thing the country needs is inflammatory rhetoric from those entrusted with public office."

The party maintained that the ultimate sovereignty lies with the Nigerian populace and warned against any attempts to conflate access to public office with ownership of the state.

Furthermore, the ADC pledged to employ all lawful and constitutional means to counter any efforts to undermine the will of the voters.

"If Wike and the APC are confident in their performance, they should submit themselves to the verdict of the electorate," the statement added.

The ADC also committed to mobilizing democratic institutions and civil society organizations to protect the integrity of the electoral process, asserting that no "war" declaration or misuse of power can supersede the voice of the voters.