The Federal Capital Territory (FCT) chapter of the African Democratic Congress (ADC) has criticised the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) for what it described as a “disturbing silence” following comments allegedly made by the FCT Minister, Nyesom Wike, regarding the forthcoming council elections.
According to the party, Wike had publicly declared that candidates who do not support President Bola Tinubu would not be allowed to win in the FCT area council polls.
The statement has since sparked controversy, with opposition figures questioning its implications for electoral neutrality.
In a statement issued by its FCT Publicity Secretary, Nwigbo Chukwudi Samuel, the ADC expressed concern that nearly two days after the remark, INEC had yet to publicly address or distance itself from the minister’s comments.
The party questioned whether the electoral umpire’s silence could be interpreted as tacit approval. It also challenged the notion that any political office holder could influence or predetermine the outcome of an election, insisting that such rhetoric undermines public confidence in the democratic process.
Samuel further maintained that voters in the FCT would turn out in large numbers for the February 21 council elections and remain vigilant throughout the process to ensure that results reflect the will of the people. He stressed that the party is committed to safeguarding the integrity of the vote and called on INEC officials and ad hoc staff to conduct the exercise with transparency and fairness.
The ADC warned against any attempt to manipulate the electoral process, describing the situation as unacceptable and urging electoral authorities to uphold due process in order to preserve trust in the system.
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The controversy adds fresh tension ahead of the FCT council polls, as political stakeholders continue to debate the role of key actors and the importance of maintaining electoral independence.