People’s Democratic Party (PDP) has condemned a viral video showing the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, addressing supporters of the All Progressives Congress at a polling unit, where he allegedly told them that after voting, they should “leave the rest” for him.
The PDP National Chairman, Kabiru Tanimu Turaki, SAN, said in a statement on Saturday, that the opposition party described the comment as “deeply disturbing,” warning that it suggests a dangerous intent to interfere with the electoral process.
“The statement is deeply disturbing. It conveys a troubling mindset and suggests a clear intent to interfere with, manipulate, or unduly influence the electoral process,” the PDP said.
According to the party, such conduct is unacceptable in a democratic society and poses a serious threat to the credibility and integrity of elections.
The PDP stressed that Nigerians expect public office holders to uphold the highest standards of neutrality and transparency, especially 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 party also called on the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to take immediate notice of the comment and act decisively to safeguard the electoral process.
“The PDP therefore calls on INEC 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,” it stated.
The party urged the electoral umpire to reassure Nigerians of its commitment to credible polls through firm and transparent actions.
“INEC must reassure Nigerians through decisive action that it remains committed to conducting free, fair, and credible elections,” the statement read.
Reaffirming its commitment to democracy, the PDP warned that no individual, regardless of status or influence, should be allowed to undermine the will of the people.
“Democracy must be protected, and no one regardless of position or influence should be allowed to undermine the will of the people,” the party said.
The controversy has continued to generate reactions on social media, with many Nigerians calling for strict adherence to electoral laws and accountability from public officials ahead of future elections.