2027: ADC Chieftain Tells Wike He Cannot Stop Atiku’s Presidential Ambition
A chieftain of the African Democratic Congress (ADC), Chief Eze Chukwuemeka Eze, has dismissed comments by the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, that former Vice President Atiku Abubakar would never become President of Nigeria, describing the remarks as undemocratic, arrogant and contrary to the principles of democracy.
In a statement issued on Monday and made available to journalists, Eze said no individual, regardless of political influence or public office, has the power to determine who becomes Nigeria's President.
He challenged Wike to explain the nature of the "political structure" he frequently claims will prevent Atiku from winning the 2027 presidential election.
According to Eze, Nigerians deserve to know whether the minister was referring to a legitimate political structure built on popular support or one allegedly sustained through the manipulation of state institutions, intimidation of opponents, abuse of security agencies and other anti-democratic practices.
"It is important that Wike tells Nigerians what he means by structure. Is it the structure of the people or the structure of power? Is it founded on democratic principles or built around intimidation and the manipulation of institutions? These are questions Nigerians deserve answers," he said.
The ADC stalwart argued that the prevailing economic hardship, insecurity, rising cost of living and widespread dissatisfaction among Nigerians have significantly changed the country's political landscape, making it increasingly difficult for any individual to dictate electoral outcomes.
He noted that Nigerians, particularly the youth, are becoming more politically conscious and determined to reclaim the country's democratic process.
According to him, the era when a handful of powerful politicians could decide the nation's leadership behind closed doors is gradually coming to an end.
Eze also cautioned Wike against what he described as the illusion of political invincibility, stressing that history has shown that no politician remains permanently influential.
He urged public office holders in the current administration to focus on addressing Nigeria's pressing socio-economic challenges rather than engaging in premature political rhetoric.
"The 2027 presidential election will not be determined by boasts, threats or propaganda but by the collective judgment of Nigerians based on competence, credibility, vision and the ability to rescue the country from its present challenges," he stated.
Expressing confidence in the ADC's prospects ahead of the next general election, Eze said the party had emerged as a credible platform capable of providing Nigerians with an alternative political direction.
He maintained that no individual owns Nigeria or has a monopoly over political relevance, insisting that the country's sovereignty rests solely with its citizens.
"The occupant of Aso Rock in 2027 will be determined by Nigerians and not by the personal wishes of any political office holder," he said.
Eze further warned that any political structure built on intimidation, arrogance and abuse of state power would ultimately collapse in the face of a determined electorate.
He advised Wike to focus on his responsibilities as Minister of the Federal Capital Territory rather than making statements capable of deepening political divisions.
"Nigeria belongs to its citizens. Nobody possesses a private franchise over the Presidency. The sovereign will of Nigerians remains supreme and will ultimately prevail over every scheme, every structure and every attempt to undermine the democratic choice of the people. The 2027 election will be decided by Nigerians and Nigerians alone," Eze stated.
