By Myke Uzendu, Abuja
The African Democratic Congress (ADC) has condemned remarks attributed to the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, in which he reportedly declared “war” against candidates opposed to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu ahead of the February 21, 2026 elections.
In a statement signed by its National Publicity Secretary, Mallam Bolaji Abdullahi, the party described the comments as reckless, inflammatory and dangerous, warning that such rhetoric could heighten political tensions in an already fragile national climate.
The ADC said Nigeria is grappling with economic hardship, insecurity and political distrust, and cautioned that public office holders must avoid statements capable of undermining democratic stability.
“We consider the Minister’s declaration of ‘war’ against so-called anti-Tinubu candidates not only irresponsible, but dangerous in the current fragile atmosphere of our nation,” the statement read.
The party insisted that the outcome of the February 21 polls would be determined solely by Nigerians and not by any individual in government.
“Nigeria is not a battlefield for political vendettas, it is a constitutional democracy. The sovereign will rests with the Nigerian people, not with any President, not with any Minister,” the ADC stated.
It accused Wike and the All Progressives Congress (APC) of attempting to intimidate voters, arguing that such tactics reflect fear and declining popularity.
According to the party, threats or coercive rhetoric aimed at opposition candidates only reveal anxiety about public support and deepen perceptions of disconnection between the government and citizens.
The ADC urged the ruling party to submit itself to the electorate if confident in its performance, rather than resort to what it termed political theatrics.
The party also vowed to resist any attempt to undermine the democratic process.
“We will not sit idly by and watch political actors truncate our democracy. Any attempt, overt or covert, to subvert the will of Nigerians to freely choose their leaders will be firmly resisted through every lawful and constitutional means,” the statement added.
It said it was prepared to mobilise democratic institutions, civil society partners and citizens to defend the sanctity of the ballot.
