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Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, has claimed that former Rivers State Governor Rotimi Amaechi never stood a realistic chance of winning the African Democratic Congress presidential primary because the party’s structure was already firmly under the control of former Vice President Atiku Abubakar before the contest began. Wike made the remarks while reacting to the controversy surrounding the ADC presidential primary that produced Atiku as the party’s flag bearer for the 2027 election. (punchng.com)
According to Wike, the ADC presidential race was effectively designed in Atiku’s favour long before voting commenced, making it impossible for rival aspirants such as Amaechi and businessman Mohammed Hayatu-Deen to secure victory. The FCT minister argued that many political actors already understood the outcome before the exercise took place because the majority of the party’s influential leaders and delegates had aligned with Atiku. He questioned why Amaechi entered the race despite what he described as clear indications that the contest was heavily tilted toward the former vice president. (punchng.com)
Wike further dismissed allegations that Atiku manipulated the process, insisting that politics is largely driven by influence, alliances, and control of party structures. He stated that anyone seeking to win a presidential primary must first build strong support within the party rather than relying solely on public popularity. The minister also criticised opposition coalition efforts involving Atiku, Amaechi, Peter Obi, and other political figures, suggesting that personal ambitions and leadership struggles could weaken attempts to form a united front against President Bola Tinubu and the APC in 2027. (punchng.com)
His comments come as tensions continue to grow within the ADC following the disputed primary election. Amaechi and Hayatu-Deen have both rejected the credibility of the exercise, alleging widespread irregularities, voter suppression, and manipulation of results. Despite the protests, Atiku has continued consolidating support within the party after recording overwhelming victories across several states. Political observers believe Wike’s remarks highlight the deep divisions and intense power struggles already shaping opposition politics as preparations for the 2027 presidential election gather momentum nationwide. (punchng.com)
