The African Democratic Congress (ADC) has condemned comments reportedly made by the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, in which he allegedly vowed to wage “war” against candidates opposed to President Bola Tinubu in the forthcoming FCT council elections.
The opposition party described the statement as reckless, provocative, and inconsistent with the principles of democratic governance.
In a statement signed by its National Publicity Secretary, Mallam Bolaji Abdullahi, on Monday, the ADC emphasised that Nigeria is a constitutional democracy, not a battleground for political vendettas, and stressed that the ultimate authority to determine leadership rests with the electorate.
The party warned that inflammatory language from high-ranking government officials could exacerbate political tensions and destabilise the electoral environment, particularly with the February 21, 2026 polls fast approaching.
“The Nigerian people—not any minister or political officeholder—are the arbiters of the democratic process,” the statement noted.
Accusing Wike and the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) of attempting to intimidate voters, the ADC argued that such declarations reflect growing concern over the party’s level of popular support.
“The Minister’s claim of ‘war’ against so-called anti-Tinubu candidates is not only irresponsible, it is perilous in the fragile political climate we currently face,” the statement said.
The party also highlighted the broader challenges confronting Nigerians, including economic hardship, insecurity, and political distrust, arguing that incendiary rhetoric from public officials only worsens these pressures.
“At a time when citizens are struggling with profound social and economic issues, the last thing needed is provocative statements from those entrusted with governance,” Abdullahi added.
Reaffirming its commitment to constitutional democracy, the ADC reminded the government that sovereignty resides with the people and cautioned against attempts to conflate access to public office with ownership of the state.
The party pledged to resist any effort to subvert the will of the electorate through lawful means.
“If the minister and the APC are confident in their record, they should submit to the judgment of the voters rather than resorting to threats and intimidation,” the statement emphasised.
The ADC further announced plans to work with democratic institutions and civil society organizations to protect the integrity of the ballot, asserting that no declaration of “war” or misuse of public office could override the democratic choice of Nigerians.
