Wike calls for INEC action

Nyesom Wike, the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, urged the Independent Electoral Commission to sanction Rotimi Amaechi over his inflammatory remarks.

Amaechi's town hall comments

Rotimi Amaechi, the ADC vice-presidential candidate, claimed only mad people and thieves would vote for President Bola Tinubu in the 2027 presidential election.

Amaechi's specific remarks

Amaechi stated that only mad men would vote for Tinubu and that if Edo people voted for him, it meant the people were mad.

Wike's reaction

Wike expressed disappointment that INEC had not yet sanctioned Amaechi for his 'irresponsible and inciting' comments.

Wike's criticism

Wike condemned Amaechi's remarks as unacceptable for a vice presidential candidate seeking national leadership.

Wike's warning

Wike warned that Amaechi would face difficulties campaigning in Rivers if he continued making such comments.

Wike's call for accountability

Wike urged INEC to enforce electoral regulations strictly and hold candidates accountable for non-issue-based campaigns.

Wike's concern

Wike expressed deep concern over rising trends of personal insults and public incitement in campaign rhetoric.

Wike's media criticism

Wike scolded media organizations for failing to challenge political candidates who resort to derogatory attacks instead of policy discussions.

Background on Wike and Amaechi

Both Wike and Amaechi are former governors of Rivers State.

Wike's next steps

Wike called for INEC to sanction political parties, candidates, or politicians who incite the public or raise non-issue-based matters.

Wike's stance on INEC

Wike emphasized that agencies should take their functions seriously and not allow regulatory inaction on political misconduct.

Wike's warning to Amaechi

Wike warned that Amaech: 'You cannot sit down, call voters madmen and thieves, and expect to walk away free.'

“You cannot sit down, call voters madmen and thieves, and expect to walk away free”

Wike's final warning

Wike stated that Amaechi's comments would make it difficult for him to campaign in Rivers.