The African Democratic Congress on Monday condemned comments by the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, suggesting that the upcoming local council elections in Abuja could become a “war zone.”
In a statement, the party’s National Publicity Secretary, Bolaji Abdullahi, called Wike’s remarks “irresponsible and dangerous” and warned that such rhetoric could escalate political tensions and undermine democratic stability.
“The Nigerian people, not President Bola Ahmed Tinubu or any minister, will determine the outcome of the Feb. 21, 2026, elections,” Abdullahi said.
The ADC also accused Wike and the ruling All Progressives Congress of attempting to intimidate voters, suggesting the tactics reflect fear and declining popularity. The party vowed to resist any effort to subvert the will of Nigerians “through lawful and constitutional means.”
Abdullahi added that Nigeria “is not a battlefield for political vendettas; it is a constitutional democracy,” and stressed that any attempt to undermine voters’ rights would be opposed by the ADC with support from democratic institutions, civil society partners, and the Nigerian public.
“No declaration of ‘war,’ no abuse of office, and no political theatrics can override the sovereign voice of the electorate. Our democracy was hard-earned. It will not be surrendered to intimidation by actors like Wike and his paymaster,” the statement said.
