The Obidient Movement has cautioned FCT Minister Nyesom Wike against interfering in the 2027 general election, after he said he would lead President Bola Tinubu’s re-election campaigns in Rivers State and the Federal Capital Territory.
In a statement issued yesterday, the group said taking charge of a campaign did not give Wike control over voters or the electoral process. It stressed that both territories belonged to their residents, not to any politician or party.
“Wike must understand that coordinating a political campaign does not confer ownership of the electorate, control over voters, or authority over the electoral process,” the movement said.
Wike declared last Monday that he would serve as field commander for Tinubu’s campaign in Rivers and the FCT. The announcement drew criticism from the group, which urged him to make his case based on the president’s record and leave the decision to voters.
“If Wike believes the APC deserves victory, he should campaign for it and allow the people to decide,” the statement said. “He should present Tinubu’s record to Nigerians and submit himself to the verdict of the ballot box.”
The movement also called on the Independent National Electoral Commission and security agencies to remain impartial and show they are free from political influence. It said any attempt by Wike, his associates or other political figures to manipulate the polls should face legal consequences.
The group urged Nigerians to monitor the elections, document suspected irregularities and report credible evidence through lawful channels. It said the credibility of the 2027 vote would depend on whether ballots were cast freely and counted accurately.
Neither Wike, Tinubu nor the All Progressives Congress should assume victory is assured, the movement added, saying the electorate must have the final say.
