Federal Capital Territory Minister Nyesom Wike has issued a strong warning to former Vice-President Atiku Abubakar and the African Democratic Congress (ADC), asserting that they will struggle to secure even 10% of the votes in Rivers State during the 2027 elections. Speaking at a luncheon honoring candidates from the Rainbow Coalition, Wike emphasized that no party other than the coalition would emerge victorious in the state’s governorship race.
Wike, a former governor of Rivers State, criticized the ADC and the National Democratic Congress (NDC), stating that these parties lack electoral experience. ‘ADC and NDC have never contested an election before. They know nothing about elections, only about defecting. Now they will learn what a real election looks like, starting from Rivers State,’ he declared.
He further mocked the opposition’s approach, noting that it is insufficient to appear on television professing love for the president. ‘You must demonstrate commitment through votes that can win elections, not by visiting him in Lagos,’ Wike remarked. He recalled that Atiku failed to secure 10% of the vote in Rivers in 2023 and predicted an even worse outcome for him in 2027. ‘If he manages 10%, it would be an improvement, but we will ensure the ADC does not reach that mark here,’ Wike vowed.
Wike contrasted the opposition’s perceived laziness with his coalition’s work ethic, stating, ‘A man who avoids work but shows up when food is ready has no place in this state. Hard work is essential.’ He concluded by asserting his coalition’s track record of winning under pressure, adding that without intimidation, their success is guaranteed.