2027: Amaechi may face difficulty campaigning in Rivers – Wike warns
Nyesom Wike, the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, issued a stark warning on Friday, stating that Rotimi Amaechi, the former Governor of Rivers State and vice-presidential candidate for the African Democratic Congress, may face significant challenges in campaigning within Rivers State.
Wike’s comments were a response to remarks made by Amaechi, who suggested that only those who engage in theft would support President Bola Tinubu in the upcoming 2027 elections. Wike indicated that if Amaechi continued with such statements, the residents of Rivers would “not take it.”
The minister made these comments in Abuja following a meeting with the chairpersons of the six area councils in the Federal Capital Territory. “If he continues this line, it will be difficult for him to campaign in Rivers. We will not take that,” Wike said. He added that it would be the responsibility of security agencies and the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to respond appropriately.
Wike characterized Amaechi’s comments as unsuitable for a politician aspiring to national office and urged INEC and security forces to address what he referred to as inflammatory rhetoric. He reiterated the importance of political campaigns focusing on issues rather than personal attacks.
Reports indicate that Wike has consistently expressed criticism toward Amaechi since the election campaign began. In light of the divisive rhetoric, experts have cautioned that the upcoming elections in Rivers State could be prone to violence if security measures are not adequately enforced.
