Wike Faults Opposition Parties, Says Crises From Primaries Exposed Their ‘Fake Messianic’ Claims

Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, has criticised key opposition figures and political parties, arguing that recent disputes arising from their party’s primary elections have undermined claims that they offer a credible alternative to the country’s ruling political party and others.

Speaking during his monthly media briefing in Abuja on Monday, Wike said controversies that trailed congresses and primary elections in some opposition parties exposed what he described as contradictions between their public rhetoric and internal practices.

The minister referenced complaints and protests that emerged during the conduct of party congresses and primaries, noting that even presidential aspirants openly questioned the credibility of the exercises.

According to him, parties that had presented themselves as champions of democratic reforms were now grappling with the same challenges they often accused larger parties of perpetrating.

“They told Nigerians they were the new face of democracy and the alternative platform for change. But what we have seen is that even within their own structures, there are allegations of irregularities and protests over congresses and primaries,” he said.

Wike argued that the developments should encourage Nigerians to critically assess political actors based on their conduct rather than campaign rhetoric.

He maintained that managing political parties in Nigeria requires a practical understanding of the country’s political environment, adding that older parties have acquired experience in handling internal disagreements and organisational challenges.

“My assessment is that the parties that have been tested over time understand the complexities of Nigeria’s political culture and democratic process,” he said.

The former Rivers State governor also dismissed suggestions that some of the country’s major political parties had become irrelevant, insisting that political relevance is ultimately determined by performance, internal cohesion and public support.

Wike’s comments came amidst ongoing political realignments and heightened activities across party lines ahead of future electoral contests, with several opposition parties seeking to strengthen their structures and broaden their appeal to voters.

He urged political leaders to focus on strengthening democratic institutions and promoting internal party democracy rather than relying on rhetoric aimed at discrediting opponents.