Wike Dismisses ADC Election Prospects Citing Past Defeats of Amaechi and Mark’s Limited Influence in Benue

FCT Minister Nyesom Wike dismisses ADC's 2027 chances, claiming Amaechi and David Mark lack the capacity to win Rivers and Benue states.

By: AXL Media

Published: Apr 18, 2026, 3:56 AM EDT

Source: Information for this report was sourced from Daily Post Nigeria

Dismissal of Opponent’s Electoral Capacity in Rivers

The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, has publicly questioned the political viability of his long,time rival, Rotimi Amaechi, ahead of the next general election cycle. During a press briefing in Abuja on Friday, Wike asserted that the former Minister of Transportation lacks the necessary influence to deliver Rivers State to the African Democratic Congress (ADC). Wike framed Amaechi’s recent political moves as ineffective, pointing to a track record of losses despite previously holding significant federal and state positions.

Historical Context of Rivers State Contests

Wike’s critique relied heavily on the results of the 2015 and 2019 gubernatorial and presidential elections. He reminded reporters that even when Amaechi served as the Director,General of the APC presidential campaign with full federal backing, the party failed to secure dominance in Rivers. Wike noted that he successfully won his own governorship bids during those years, suggesting that the state remains resistant to the specific type of political projection now being attempted by the ADC leadership.

Critique of ADC National Leadership in Benue

The Minister extended his skepticism to the national chairman of the ADC, former Senate President David Mark. Wike argued that Mark’s inability to control his local political environment in Benue State serves as a barometer for the party’s broader national prospects. He specifically highlighted that Mark’s own daughter secured an electoral victory under the APC banner while Mark was still affiliated with the PDP, using this as evidence that the former Senate President cannot guarantee a win for the ADC in his home state.