Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, has criticized the presidential primary of the African Democratic Congress (ADC), describing the exercise as a process designed to favour former Vice President Atiku Abubakar from the outset.
Speaking on the outcome of the contest, Wike argued that the primary was structured in a manner that left little room for genuine competition, insisting that former Rivers State governor Rotimi Amaechi had virtually no prospect of emerging victorious.
According to the minister, the political dynamics surrounding the exercise made the result predictable long before delegates cast their votes. He maintained that the process was effectively tailored to deliver a preferred outcome, alleging that key stakeholders had already aligned behind Atiku’s candidacy.
Wike contended that Amaechi entered a contest in which the odds were heavily stacked against him, making it difficult for any rival aspirant to alter the expected result. He further suggested that the primary reflected broader political calculations within the opposition camp rather than a fully open and competitive democratic process.
The remarks add another layer to the growing debate surrounding internal democracy and candidate selection within opposition parties ahead of future electoral contests. Wike, a frequent critic of political arrangements he views as predetermined, has repeatedly called for transparent and inclusive nomination processes.
Neither Atiku nor the ADC immediately responded to the latest comments. However, supporters of the party have maintained that the primary was conducted in accordance with established guidelines and reflected the will of delegates.
The controversy underscores continuing tensions within Nigeria’s political landscape, where rival camps remain divided over leadership, alliances, and strategies ahead of the next electoral cycle. Wike’s comments are likely to fuel further discussion about the credibility and fairness of party primaries in the country.
