The African Democratic Congress, ADC, has raised concerns over the silence of the Independent National Electoral Commission on comments made by the Federal Capital Territory minister, Nyesom Wike, ahead of the upcoming council elections. Wike reportedly threatened that candidates not supporting President Bola Tinubu would not be allowed to win in the FCT, prompting questions about electoral fairness.

In a statement, ADC’s FCT chapter described INEC’s silence as “deafening” and asked whether it could be seen as complicity. The party’s Publicity Secretary, Nwigbo Chukwudi Samuel, urged the commission to take immediate action and ensure that all candidates are treated fairly, regardless of political affiliation.

The party warned that its members would actively participate in the elections on February 21 and pledged to safeguard the votes. ADC also cautioned that any attempt to rig the election would be met with strong resistance, emphasizing their commitment to transparency and due process throughout the electoral process.

ADC concluded by criticizing Wike’s approach, describing him as a “political bandit” and insisting that if he wants to test popularity in the FCT, he should campaign openly rather than threaten candidates. The party called on INEC to uphold its role as the impartial electoral umpire and deliver a free, fair, and credible election.