Wike faults INEC’s silence over Amaechi’s ‘mad people’ remark on Tinubu voters

Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, has urged the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to sanction former Rivers State Governor Rotimi Amaechi over remarks describing Nigerians who vote for President Bola Tinubu in the 2027 election as “mad people” and thieves.

Wike described the comments as irresponsible and inflammatory, insisting that politicians seeking public office should be held accountable for campaign statements that target opponents and their supporters rather than address policies and governance.

The minister spoke on Friday in Abuja after a meeting with chairmen of the FCT area councils and heads of security agencies.

Amaechi, the African Democratic Congress (ADC) vice-presidential candidate, made the remarks on Thursday during the party’s town hall meeting in Benin City, Edo State, where he urged residents to reject Tinubu in the 2027 presidential election.

“I read on social media that it is only in 2027 that we will know how many mad men we have in Nigeria. It is only a mad man that can vote for Tinubu,” Amaechi was quoted as saying.

“If you are not a mad man, then Tinubu should not win here,” he added.

Reacting, Wike faulted INEC for what he described as its failure to address the remarks, arguing that political candidates should not be allowed to insult voters without consequences.

“Up till now, I have not heard that INEC has been able to call the attention of Amaechi,” the minister said.

Wike maintained that the comments were inappropriate for a politician aspiring to national leadership, particularly one seeking to become vice-president.

He also warned that Amaechi could face difficulties campaigning in Rivers State if he continued making such statements.

“If he continues along this line, it will be difficult for him to campaign in Rivers. We will make it difficult for him,” Wike said.

The FCT minister called on electoral authorities to enforce campaign regulations and ensure that political parties and candidates focus on issues affecting Nigerians rather than personal attacks.

He said campaigns should centre on what candidates intend to do for the electorate, including their policies and proposed solutions to the country’s challenges.

Wike also criticised media organisations for failing to challenge politicians when their campaign messages descend into insults and personal attacks.