The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, has responded to criticism from the Senator representing the FCT, Ireti Kingibe, stating that elections should be viewed as a full political process rather than a single day of voting.

Speaking during a media chat in Abuja, the former governor of Rivers State emphasized that the February 21 FCT council election result reflected the entire electoral process, including candidate nominations, campaigns, and voter participation.

According to Wike, focusing only on election day ignores the months of preparation and political engagement that precede the final vote.

“An election is a process that begins with the nomination of candidates and continues through campaigns before reaching the voting stage,” he said.

Preparation Determines Election Outcomes

The FCT minister compared elections to academic examinations, noting that serious candidates prepare long before voting day.

He explained that just as students study ahead of exams, political contenders must prepare early through organization, campaigning, and engagement with voters.

Wike added that those who fail to prepare often look for excuses after losing an election.

Reaction to Kingibe’s Comments

Wike also referenced remarks allegedly made by Senator Kingibe suggesting that the local government election would be used to “teach him a lesson.”

Responding to the claim, the minister insisted that the outcome of elections in the FCT is determined solely by voters.

He further addressed allegations that he imposed a curfew before the election, dismissing the claim as inaccurate.

According to Wike, he only referenced a directive approved by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu granting residents a work-free day to allow them travel safely to their voting locations without returning late.

Acting on Security Intelligence

Wike stressed that as a minister representing the president in the Federal Capital Territory, he acts based on security intelligence and official directives.

He maintained that the decision was aimed at ensuring a smooth electoral process rather than restricting residents’ movement.

The minister concluded that elections should be assessed as a continuous democratic process that begins long before voting day and ends only after the will of the electorate is reflected in the final results.