Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, has criticised his predecessor and former Minister of Transportation, Rotimi Amaechi, describing his emergence as the African Democratic Congress (ADC) vice-presidential candidate as politically insignificant to Rivers State and the South-South region.

Speaking during a media chat in Abuja, Wike claimed Amaechi lacked the electoral strength to deliver votes in Rivers State, arguing that the state had received unprecedented federal attention under President Bola Tinubu’s administration, particularly through infrastructure projects such as the Bonny Road.

The FCT minister also questioned Amaechi’s electoral record, alleging that he failed to secure significant support for presidential candidates he backed in previous elections despite occupying influential political positions.

Wike further accused Amaechi of political inconsistency, alleging that he had previously criticised the All Progressives Congress (APC) primary process as flawed but later benefited from the same system.

He also argued that Amaechi’s past opposition to former President Goodluck Jonathan’s re-election bid and his perceived role in the removal of former Chief Justice of Nigeria, Walter Onnoghen, could affect his acceptance in the South-South.

The minister also criticised Archbishop Emeritus of Abuja, Cardinal John Onaiyekan, accusing the cleric of displaying political bias during the 2023 general election. Wike maintained that while criticism of government is legitimate, religious leaders should also acknowledge positive achievements to maintain public confidence.

Reacting to Wike’s remarks, the African Democratic Congress (ADC) in Rivers State accused the minister of being unsettled by the growing strength of the opposition ahead of the 2027 general election.

In a statement issued by the party’s Publicity Secretary, Chizy Enyi, the ADC described Wike’s repeated attacks on Amaechi as evidence of political anxiety rather than confidence.

The party maintained that Amaechi remains one of Rivers State’s most influential political figures and insisted that the outcome of the 2027 election would be decided by the electorate, not by political declarations.

The ADC also urged public office holders to focus on addressing Nigeria’s economic challenges, insecurity, unemployment and infrastructure deficits instead of engaging in political confrontations.
:::writing