A chieftain of the African Democratic Congress (ADC), Chief Eze Chukwuemeka Eze, has criticized the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, over his recent claim that former Vice President Atiku Abubakar will never become Nigeria’s president.
Reacting in a statement issued on Monday, Eze described Wike’s remarks as “unfortunate, childish, arrogant and undemocratic,” insisting that no individual has the power to determine who emerges as Nigeria’s president.
The ADC stalwart challenged the FCT minister to explain the “political structure” he frequently boasts about, questioning whether it is a legitimate democratic structure built on the support of Nigerians or one allegedly sustained through the manipulation of state institutions, intimidation of political opponents, abuse of government power and the deployment of security agencies.
“It is important that Wike tells Nigerians what he means by structure. Is it the structure of the people or the structure of power? Is it founded on democratic principles or built around intimidation and manipulation? Nigerians deserve answers,” Eze said.
He argued that the current economic hardship, rising cost of living, insecurity and widespread dissatisfaction across the country have transformed the political consciousness of Nigerians, making it increasingly difficult for any individual or political elite to dictate the outcome of future elections.
According to him, the era when a handful of influential politicians could determine the nation’s political destiny behind closed doors is gradually coming to an end, as citizens—particularly young Nigerians—are becoming more politically aware and determined to defend their votes.
Eze also cautioned Wike against what he described as the illusion of political invincibility, noting that history has shown that political influence is neither permanent nor absolute.
Rather than engaging in what he termed “premature political chest-thumping,” Eze urged the minister and other officials of the current administration to concentrate on addressing Nigeria’s pressing economic and security challenges.
He maintained that the outcome of the 2027 presidential election would be determined by Nigerians based on competence, credibility, leadership and the ability to solve the country’s problems—not by political threats or boasts.
Expressing confidence in the ADC’s readiness to challenge the ruling establishment, Eze described the party as a growing platform for Nigerians seeking democratic reforms and good governance.
“The unfortunate impression being created by Wike is that the destiny of Nigeria rests in his hands. Nothing can be farther from the truth. Nigeria belongs to over three hundred million citizens, not one individual, no matter how highly placed. The occupant of Aso Rock in 2027 will be determined by Nigerians and Nigerians alone,” he stated.
Eze further warned that any political structure built on intimidation, manipulation and the abuse of state power would eventually collapse when confronted by the collective resolve of the electorate.
He advised Wike to abandon what he described as divisive rhetoric and political grandstanding and instead focus on delivering effective service as Minister of the Federal Capital Territory.
“Nobody owns Nigeria. Nobody has the monopoly of political relevance. Nobody possesses a private franchise over the Presidency of this country. The sovereign will of Nigerians remains supreme and will ultimately prevail over every scheme, every structure and every attempt to undermine the democratic choice of the people,” Eze declared.
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