Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, has challenged the electoral strength of the African Democratic Congress (ADC), questioning its claim to major-party status ahead of the 2027 general election....
Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, has challenged the electoral strength of the African Democratic Congress (ADC), questioning its claim to major-party status ahead of the 2027 general election.
Wike dismissed the ADC as a major political party during a media interview on Tuesday, arguing that it had yet to demonstrate sufficient electoral success to justify such a description.
“How is it a major party? Have they won one councillor?” the minister asked during an exchange with his interviewers.
His remarks came amid discussions about opposition parties’ chances in the 2027 elections, including whether the ADC could attract voters with its policy proposals and challenge President Bola Tinubu’s re-election bid.
Wike acknowledged that the opposition party could secure some votes but questioned its capacity to mount a serious electoral challenge.
“You must still see one vote, two votes. You must see some votes,” he said.
The minister also cited campaign activities in Nasarawa and Kogi states as evidence of efforts to mobilise support for Tinubu beyond the ruling All Progressives Congress’s traditional strongholds.
The interview also featured a heated exchange over references to alleged offences involving political figures. While Wike insisted on his position, one of the interviewers emphasised that allegations should not be treated as established guilt without a conviction.
The comments highlight the political divisions emerging ahead of the 2027 general election, as the ruling APC and opposition parties seek to consolidate their support bases and strengthen their electoral strategies.