Wike Mocks Amaechi, Says Buhari Couldn’t Secure 25% Votes in Rivers Despite His Influence

According to Ireporter Online, the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, has dismissed the possibility of former Minister of Transportation, Rotimi Amaechi, delivering Rivers State to the African Democratic Congress (ADC) in the 2027 general elections.

Wike made the remarks while speaking with journalists on Friday, where he revisited past electoral contests in the state, arguing that Amaechi’s political influence has not translated into electoral dominance in Rivers State.

He recalled the 2015 and 2019 elections, noting that despite Amaechi’s roles within the All Progressives Congress (APC), including serving as Director-General of the late former President Muhammadu Buhari’s presidential campaign, the party was unable to secure strong results in Rivers State. He further pointed out that Buhari failed to achieve 25 percent of the vote in the state in both elections.

The FCT Minister, who also referenced his own governorship victories during the same periods, insisted that even with what he described as “federal might,” Rivers voters consistently made independent choices at the polls.

Wike questioned Amaechi’s current political relevance, asking how he could be expected to deliver Rivers State to the ADC in 2027 when previous efforts under stronger political backing had failed. He maintained that electoral outcomes in the state are determined by the electorate rather than political influence.

He also advised opposition parties to focus on strengthening their structures instead of relying on prominent figures, stressing that elections are ultimately decided by voters.

Commenting further on the ADC’s national outlook, Wike questioned its strength in other regions, citing former Senate President David Mark, the party’s national chairman, and suggesting he would struggle to deliver Benue State.