Rivers Political Tension Escalates As ADC Challenges Wike Over Amaechi’s Campaign Threat

The African Democratic Congress (ADC) has challenged the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, over his warning that the party’s vice-presidential candidate, Rotimi Amaechi, could face difficulties campaigning in Rivers State.

The opposition party maintained that neither Amaechi nor the ADC requires Wike’s permission to campaign in the state, insisting that all political actors are entitled to exercise their constitutional rights.

According to Bush Radio Academy, the party made its position known in a statement issued in Port Harcourt on Saturday by its Rivers State Publicity Secretary, Chizy Enyi, who described the minister’s remarks as a threat that warranted serious concern.

Wike had earlier warned Amaechi against continuing his criticism of President Bola Tinubu and his supporters during a media briefing in Abuja. The minister also accused the former Rivers State governor of spending $10 million on malaria fumigation and selling state-owned gas turbines for $308 million.

Wike questioned Amaechi’s record in office and warned that his continued political comments could make campaigning in Rivers State difficult for him.

“If he continues in this line, it will be difficult for him to campaign in Rivers, and I want everybody to go and write it down because we will not take that. We will not,” the minister said.

Reacting to the allegations, Enyi questioned why Wike had not pursued legal action against Amaechi if he possessed credible evidence of the alleged financial misconduct, particularly given their previous political relationship.

The ADC spokesperson noted that Wike had served as Amaechi’s Chief of Staff before becoming a minister during the same political administration, arguing that the minister should present verifiable evidence rather than make accusations through the media.

Enyi stressed that public statements and political disagreements could not replace evidence presented before the appropriate authorities.

The party therefore urged Wike to submit any evidence he might have to the relevant agencies, adding that Nigerians deserved factual explanations and accountability rather than political exchanges.

The ADC also expressed concern over the minister’s warning about Amaechi’s campaign activities, arguing that such remarks could raise questions about the freedom of opposition parties to operate in Rivers State.

“Difficult to campaign? Since when did Rivers State become a private estate requiring the permission of Nyesom Wike before citizens can exercise their constitutional rights?” Enyi asked.

He further insisted that Amaechi and the ADC were free to visit the state, engage residents and seek their votes without requiring the minister’s approval.

The party called on security agencies to take note of Wike’s remarks and ensure the safety of opposition politicians, their supporters and campaign activities across Rivers State.

It also urged the FCT minister to concentrate on his official responsibilities rather than involve himself in political exchanges with opposition figures.

The ADC said its priority remained providing Nigerians with an alternative political platform and ensuring that residents of Rivers State could freely decide which candidates to support in future elections.

The party concluded that Rivers State belongs to its people and that no individual should determine who is permitted to campaign there, stressing the importance of protecting democratic participation and political freedom.