The African Democratic Congress (ADC) has strongly criticised Federal Capital Territory Minister Nyesom Wike over reported comments declaring “war” against candidates opposed to President Bola Tinubu ahead of the 2026 general elections.
In a statement issued on Monday, the ADC described the alleged remarks as “irresponsible and dangerous,” arguing they undermine democratic principles amid existing national challenges. The party’s National Publicity Secretary, Mallam Bolaji Abdullahi, signed the statement, which asserts that no political figure can prevent Nigerians from choosing their leaders.
The ADC contended that such inflammatory rhetoric is particularly troubling given Nigeria’s current struggles with severe economic hardship, widespread insecurity, and deep political polarization. The party warned that public officials must not use their platforms to escalate tensions or settle political scores, reiterating that Nigeria is a constitutional democracy where power “ultimately belongs to the people.”
The statement directly addressed President Tinubu, the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC), and Minister Wike, declaring that Nigerians cannot be bullied or coerced. It suggested that threats against opposition candidates reveal anxiety within the ruling party about its perceived level of public support and highlight a disconnect from citizen concerns. The ADC challenged the administration to instead “submit themselves humbly to the verdict of the electorate” if confident in their performance.
The party vowed to actively resist any attempts to interfere with the electoral process, whether overt or covert. It pledged to mobilise democratic institutions and civil society partners to safeguard the “sanctity of the ballot” during the February 21, 2026 elections. The ADC insisted that no declaration of war or political pressure can override the sovereign will of voters.
This confrontation underscores the escalating political rhetoric as the 2026 election cycle approaches. The ADC’s response frames the minister’s alleged comments as part of a broader threat to electoral integrity, setting the stage for potential civic mobilisation around issues of voter autonomy and free political competition. The party’s stance signals its intent to position itself as a defender of democratic processes against what it characterises as authoritarian tendencies from the ruling establishment.
