The Turaki-led faction of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has condemned remarks allegedly made by the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, describing them as a threat to Nigeria’s democratic process.
In a press statement signed by its National Chairman, Kabiru Tanimu Turaki, on Sunday, February 22, the faction said it had taken note of a viral video showing Wike addressing supporters of the All Progressives Congress (APC) at a polling unit.
“The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has taken note of a viral video in which the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, was seen addressing supporters of the All Progressives Congress at a polling unit, openly boasting that after voting, they should ‘leave the rest’ for him,” the statement read.
The faction described the comment as alarming and incompatible with democratic standards, especially coming from a serving minister.
“This statement is deeply disturbing. It conveys a troubling mindset and suggests a clear intent to interfere with, manipulate, or unduly influence the electoral process.
“Such conduct is unacceptable in a democratic society and constitutes a direct threat to the credibility and integrity of elections,” Turaki stated.
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The group stressed that Nigerians expect public officials to uphold transparency and neutrality, particularly during elections.
“At a time when Nigerians expect transparency, neutrality, and strict adherence to democratic norms especially from public office holders this utterance falls far below the standards expected of a serving minister of the Federal Republic,” the statement added.
The PDP faction called on the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to take immediate action.
“The PDP therefore calls on the Independent National Electoral Commission to take immediate notice of this undemocratic statement and to unequivocally dissociate itself from any individual or action capable of compromising the credibility of the electoral process.
“INEC must reassure Nigerians through decisive action that it remains committed to conducting free, fair, and credible elections.”
The statement concluded with a broader appeal for democratic accountability, insisting that “Democracy must be protected, and no one regardless of position or influence should be allowed to undermine the will of the people.”