The African Democratic Congress (ADC) and its allied Coalition Movement have issued a sharp rebuttal to the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Minister, Chief Nyesom Wike, following his recent outburst against opposition figures.
The coalition described Wike’s criticism as driven by “deep anxiety” over their growing momentum ahead of the 2027 general elections.
In a statement released on 3 July 2025, coalition spokesperson Mallam Bolaji Abdullahi responded to Wike’s remarks, which were made during a televised media engagement earlier that day.
Abdullahi accused the minister of resorting to “political tantrums” due to the rising profile of the newly formed opposition bloc.
“Minister Wike’s aggressive rhetoric is a direct consequence of the coalition’s increasing traction. If he and the administration he represents had fulfilled their obligations to Nigerians, there would be no need for this political realignment,” Abdullahi stated.
He condemned Wike’s conduct as unbecoming of a public official and said the minister’s criticisms reflect desperation rather than conviction.
The coalition took particular aim at Wike’s handling of the FCT, citing the ongoing strike by primary school teachers, many of whom have not been paid for months.
Abdullahi said the neglect of education and welfare services stands in stark contrast to the minister’s focus on high-cost infrastructure projects.
“Had he prioritised paying teachers and addressing the surge in insecurity within the capital, Minister Wike would have no reason to be alarmed by the coalition,” Abdullahi added.
He further alleged that Wike bears some responsibility for the economic hardship facing Nigerians, claiming his actions have undermined the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), once the dominant political force on the continent.
“Wike says our leaders are bitter. Yes, we are dissatisfied, but not for personal reasons. We are speaking on behalf of a nation that has been failed by those in power. Our grievances stem from poverty, insecurity, and a betrayal of public trust,” he said.
The coalition reiterated its commitment to challenging the current government and pledged to push ahead with its political mission regardless of opposition.
“It is too late in the day to cry foul,” Abdullahi asserted. “This movement belongs to ordinary Nigerians, who were promised a better future but instead face worsening conditions. No amount of political name-calling will stop this wave of change.”
