Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, has launched a fresh attack on the African Democratic Congress (ADC) and the NDC, declaring that recent primary elections have exposed what he described as dishonesty and political double standards within the opposition ranks.
Speaking on the conduct and outcome of the primaries, Wike argued that the processes had revealed inconsistencies between the parties’ public rhetoric and their internal practices. He contended that Nigerians have now seen through claims of transparency and fairness that opposition figures frequently champion.
According to the minister, the events surrounding the primaries demonstrated that some political actors who criticize others for lacking internal democracy have failed to uphold the same principles within their own organizations. He maintained that the exercises exposed what he termed a pattern of political deception, insisting that the electorate is increasingly aware of such contradictions.
Wike said the outcome of the contests had validated concerns previously raised about predetermined arrangements and the influence of powerful interests in candidate selection. He argued that the developments have weakened the moral authority of those who often position themselves as advocates of democratic reforms.
The former Rivers State governor further stated that political parties must be judged not only by their public statements but also by how they conduct internal affairs. He stressed that credibility is built through transparent processes rather than political slogans.
His remarks come amid ongoing debates over the fairness and inclusiveness of party primaries ahead of future electoral contests. The comments are also likely to intensify political tensions between the ruling camp and opposition groups as preparations for the next election cycle gather momentum.
While neither ADC nor NDC immediately responded to the criticism, Wike insisted that the controversies surrounding the primaries have provided voters with a clearer picture of the parties’ internal operations.
He concluded that Nigerians are increasingly capable of distinguishing between political promises and actual conduct, adding that recent events have exposed what he views as a gap between opposition claims and reality.
