Rivers Gov’ship: ADC dares Wike, says choice rests with electorate

The African Democratic Congress (ADC) has responded to remarks attributed to the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, that he has the sole power to choose the next governor of the state, saying the 2027 governorship succession rests with the electorate. Wike had in January, during a “thank you” tour of the 23 […]

The African Democratic Congress (ADC) has responded to remarks attributed to the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, that he has the sole power to choose the next governor of the state, saying the 2027 governorship succession rests with the electorate.

Wike had in January, during a “thank you” tour of the 23 local government areas of the state, boasted that he has the numbers to determine the governor of the state in 2027—a statement he re-echoed recently.

Speaking to newsmen in Port Harcourt over the weekend, the state chairman of the ADC, Chukwudi Dimkpa, said the choice of a governor ultimately rests with the electorate, describing the process as one determined through democratic participation.

Dimkpa noted that the ADC is positioning itself as a platform focused on transparency, internal democracy, and broad-based participation.

According to him, the party is committed to building an inclusive political movement that reflects the interests of Rivers residents.

On zoning, the ADC chairman acknowledged its role in promoting balance and inclusion in the state, particularly between river-rine and upland communities.

He, however, stressed the importance of combining equity with competence, adding that the party would adopt a consultative approach in selecting its candidate.

Dimkpa said the goal is to present a candidate with the capacity to govern effectively. .and secure wide acceptance across the state.

He added that the party would, at the appropriate time, take decisions aimed at fostering unity and strengthening democratic processes.

The ADC maintained that issues such as governance, security, and economic development remain key priorities for residents, noting that leadership selection should reflect these concerns as the 2027 elections approach.