ADC Condemns Wike’s Alleged Interference in FCT Elections, Seeks Restoration of INEC Portal

The African Democratic Congress (ADC) has condemned what it described as interference by the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, in the ongoing Federal Capital Territory (FCT) area council elections.

In a statement signed by its National Publicity Secretary, Bolaji Abdullahi, the party criticised the minister’s movement around various polling units in Abuja, which it said was being carried out under the guise of “monitoring.”

The ADC alleged that Wike’s actions followed what it termed a unilateral imposition of a curfew on potential voters, arguing that his presence at polling units during active voting constituted direct interference in the electoral process.

According to the party, Wike is not a registered voter in the FCT and, as a cabinet minister and known partisan figure, has no constitutional role in the conduct of elections. It described his presence at polling units as “vexatious and meddlesome,” warning that it could intimidate voters and electoral officials.

The party also claimed it had received reports of voter suppression and intimidation in parts of the FCT. It further alleged collaboration between agents of the All Progressives Congress (APC) and some security personnel, though it did not provide specific details.

In addition, the ADC raised concerns over disruptions to the Independent National Electoral Commission’s (INEC) Result Viewing Portal (IReV), which it said remained inaccessible even as results were being collated.

Describing the development as a “curious coincidence,” the party called on the Independent National Electoral Commission to urgently restore full functionality of the portal and provide a clear public explanation for the disruption.

The ADC urged its party agents and supporters to remain calm but vigilant, advising them to document any incidents observed during the electoral process.

The statement was signed by Mallam Bolaji Abdullahi, National Publicity Secretary of the party.