The Rivers State chapter of the African Democratic Congress (ADC) has criticized Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, for threatening to stop its Vice-Presidential candidate, Rotimi Amaechi, from campaigning in the state. According to the party, Wike has no legal or moral right to make such a statement. The ADC reacted to a statement attributed to Wike, in which he reportedly said he would not allow Amaechi to campaign in Rivers unless he accounted for funds allegedly misappropriated during his tenure as governor.
The party's Publicity Secretary, Chizy Eneyi, challenged Wike to present evidence of the alleged financial misconduct to the appropriate authorities. Eneyi noted that Wike served as governor of Rivers State for eight years and questioned why he had not ensured prosecution of the alleged crimes. The party described Wike's statement as troubling and an affront to opposition politicians' rights.
The ADC also questioned Wike's involvement in Amaechi's political activities, given his responsibility for administering the FCT. The party asked why every statement made by Amaechi appeared to require an emergency response from Wike. The party suggested that Wike's reaction was an admission that Amaechi's message had hit home.
The party reaffirmed its commitment to offering Nigerians an alternative and ensuring that Rivers' residents could freely choose their leaders. The ADC stated that Rivers State was not anybody's inheritance and that democracy was not a private franchise. The party emphasized that no Minister held the licence to determine who may or may not campaign in Rivers State.
The ADC urged security agencies to take note of Wike's remarks and ensure the safety of political actors and the protection of their constitutional rights. The party noted that Wike's statement was particularly troubling given the history of political intimidation and attacks on opposition activities in Rivers State.
Wike had reportedly said he would not allow Amaechi to campaign in Rivers unless he accounted for funds allegedly misappropriated during his tenure as governor. The ADC described this statement as an attempt to intimidate Amaechi and undermine his right to campaign. The party emphasized that Amaechi did not require Wike's permission to visit, campaign or seek the votes of Rivers people.
The ADC concluded by emphasizing that Rivers State belonged to its people, not to any individual. The party stated that it would continue to work towards providing an alternative to the current political landscape in Nigeria. The party's statement was a clear response to Wike's threat, emphasizing that Amaechi had the right to campaign freely in Rivers State.
Key points
- The ADC has criticized Nyesom Wike for threatening to stop Rotimi Amaechi from campaigning in Rivers State.
- The party has challenged Wike to present evidence of alleged financial misconduct by Amaechi.
- The ADC has reaffirmed its commitment to ensuring that Rivers' residents can freely choose their leaders.
