ADC Slams Wike Over War Comment Ahead of Feb 21 Polls

The African Democratic Congress (ADC) has criticised the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, over his reported declaration of “war” against anti-Tinubu candidates ahead of the February 21, 2026 elections.

In a statement issued on Monday and signed by its National Publicity Secretary, Mallam Bolaji Abdullahi, the party described the comment as “irresponsible and dangerous,” warning that it would not deter Nigerians from exercising their right to vote.

According to the ADC, the minister’s remarks were particularly troubling at a time when the country is grappling with economic hardship, insecurity and political tension.

“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. At a time when Nigerians are grappling with unprecedented economic hardship, insecurity and deep political distrust, the last thing the country needs is inflammatory rhetoric from those entrusted with public office,” the statement read.

“Nigeria must not be turned into a ground for settling political scores; it is a constitutional democracy. Power ultimately belongs to the people, not to any President, any Minister, or anyone who wrongly assumes that holding public office means owning the country,” it added.

The party said it was reminding President Bola Tinubu, the All Progressives Congress (APC), Wike and other government officials that Nigerians cannot be bullied or pressured into supporting any candidate.

The ADC argued that any attempt to threaten or coerce voters reflects fear and growing anxiety within the APC over its level of public support, as well as what it described as a widening disconnect between the government and citizens.

“If Wike, the APC and its leaders are confident in their performance, they should submit themselves humbly to the verdict of the electorate,” the statement said.

The party further vowed to resist any attempt to interfere with the electoral process.

“Any attempt, overt or covert, to subvert the will of Nigerians to freely choose their leaders will be firmly resisted through every means at our disposal,” the ADC stated.

It maintained that no declaration of war or political pressure would override the voice of the electorate in the February 21 polls.