The Human Rights Writers Association of Nigeria (HURIWA) has challenged the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to clarify the implications of FCT Minister Nyesom Wike’s claim that he is “in charge” of political structures in Rivers State and the Federal Capital Territory ahead of the 2027 elections.
Wike had reportedly told journalists during a media chat in Abuja that he was the “general commander” of the political structure in Rivers and also controlled the structure in the FCT.
He was quoted as saying he was certain of delivering both Rivers and the FCT to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu in the 2027 presidential election.
Reacting in a statement on Thursday, HURIWA National Coordinator, Comrade Emmanuel Onwubiko, said the declaration raises questions about the neutrality and credibility of the electoral process.
The group asked whether Wike’s confidence was merely political rhetoric or whether he possessed information about the expected outcome of the 2027 election that Nigerians do not have.
HURIWA urged INEC to reassure Nigerians that no political office holder or influential political actor has the power to predetermine an election outcome.
The organisation said the credibility of the 2027 elections would depend not only on the conduct of voting but also on public confidence in the independence and neutrality of the electoral umpire.
It called on INEC to introduce and publicise additional measures to strengthen confidence in the electoral process and demonstrate that votes would determine the outcome of the election.
HURIWA acknowledged Wike’s right to mobilise political support for his preferred candidate but said his assertion of certainty about delivering Rivers and the FCT before the election creates an impression that warrants clarification.
The group therefore urged INEC to assure Nigerians that every vote will count and that the outcome of the 2027 elections will be determined by voters rather than political influence or alleged backroom arrangements.
HURIWA said Nigeria cannot afford an electoral process surrounded by suspicion and called for the 2027 elections to be free, fair, transparent and credible.
