By Balikis Ajoyo
The Rivers State chapter of the African Democratic Congress, ADC, has rejected claims by the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, that the party’s vice-presidential candidate, Rotimi Amaechi, would be defeated by noon on election day.
The party said the outcome of the 2027 elections would be determined by voters and not by political boasts or predictions.
Wike made the statement on Saturday at a civic reception organised in his honour by the City Boy Movement in Omagwa, Rivers State, where he told supporters that candidates backed by the Rainbow Coalition would win the 2027 elections.
Reacting in a statement issued on Monday in Port Harcourt, ADC State Chairman, Dr Chukwudi Dimkpa, said elections could not be won through intimidation, boasts or the announcement of results before voting takes place.
Dimkpa said Rivers voters would cast their ballots, the votes would be counted, and the Independent National Electoral Commission, INEC, would announce the results.
He also criticised Wike’s conduct at the Omagwa event, alleging that the reception was held along the route to Ubima at a time when Amaechi was burying his mother, Dame Ezinne Amaechi.
According to the ADC chairman, the event caused traffic congestion and was subsequently used as a platform to criticise Amaechi.
Dimkpa described the development as insensitive and provocative, arguing that there should be a distinction between political rivalry and moments of mourning.
He said the ADC deliberately refrained from responding to the alleged provocation on Saturday because its attention was focused on giving Amaechi’s mother a befitting burial.
The party chairman further urged Rivers residents not to be intimidated by any political figure ahead of the 2027 elections.
He called on voters to critically assess the candidates and elect leaders capable of improving their lives and contributing positively to the development of the state.
The exchange between the ADC and Wike comes as political activities intensify ahead of the 2027 general elections, with major political blocs already mobilising support and making predictions about the outcome of the polls in Rivers State.