Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Minister Nyesom Wike stated on Saturday that the electorate in Rivers State will not support the African Democratic Congress (ADC) during the 2027 general elections, citing recent comments made by the party's vice-presidential candidate, Rotimi Amaechi.
Wike argued that Amaechi had previously claimed he possessed enough popularity to bypass active campaigning, prompting the minister to assert that Rivers residents would ensure that political stance is tested at the polls. He also urged the public to disregard any future allegations of electoral manipulation from the opposition politician when the party faces defeat.
Addressing attendees during a presidential campaign rally held for President Bola Tinubu in Rivers State, Wike maintained that the local populace remains firmly behind the current administration.
Why did Wike criticize the opposition?
During his address, the FCT minister referenced a television broadcast where the opposition figure allegedly downplayed the need for rigorous grassroots campaigning, attributing his stance to personal popularity.
"Your Excellency, yesterday I overheard somebody on News Central, who was ranting that we are worried and that's why we are campaigning every day, that he does not get worried because he is very popular and he doesn't need to campaign," Wike remarked.
He emphasized that the declaration should serve as official notice that the ADC running candidate chose not to canvass for votes in the state, preempting any potential grievances regarding the integrity of the ballot count.
"So, let it be on record that the vice-presidential candidate of ADC has told the world that he does not need to campaign in Rivers State; let it not be tomorrow, he will say that he campaigned and the election was rigged, he did not campaign, and nobody is going to vote for him," he added.
Historical context and political alliances
Recalling past political definitions of loyalty, Wike noted that during the 2023 electoral cycle, the same politician had redefined the concept of brotherhood within the political sphere, arguing that true brotherhood transcends biological ties and is defined by mutual support during difficult times.
Linking that previous assertion to current political realities, Wike concluded that President Tinubu has demonstrated genuine commitment to the region, thereby earning the status of a true brother to the people of Rivers State.
"Now, who is our brother now? So our brother is Bola Tinubu because he identifies with the people of Rivers State," Wike stated, assuring the president of total regional support in future polls.