The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, on Friday threw down a challenge to David Mark, Interim National Chairman of the African Democratic Congress (ADC), and opposition coalition stalwart Rotimi Amaechi, accusing them of misleading Nigerians with their rhetoric. Wike, speaking firmly, asserted that the coalition spearheaded by David Mark, Amaechi, and their allies had no realistic path to regaining political power come 2027. He made these remarks while addressing attendees during the inauguration of the newly rehabilitated Aguma Palace–Radio Nigeria–New Market Road project in the Gwagwalada Area Council of the FCT. The project, officially commissioned by Vice President Kashim Shettima on behalf of President Bola Tinubu, formed part of initiatives planned to commemorate Tinubu’s second term in office. Using the event as a platform, Wike directly challenged David Mark, Amaechi, and the coalition’s leadership to present their performance records to Nigerians. Wike stated, “They claimed the coalition was formed 18 months ago, while Tinubu had only been in office for six months. You started forming your coalition while he was just six months into the presidency, yet you’ve been telling Nigerians that they are unhappy after such a short time in power.” He further highlighted the past opportunities these leaders had to make a difference while in public office. Wike pointed out that David Mark held the office of Senate President for eight years, while Amaechi was Speaker of a State Assembly for four years and later served as Minister of Transportation for another eight years. Despite these opportunities, Wike argued, neither leader had made tangible improvements to satisfy Nigerians. “They never made angry Nigerians happy,” Wike emphasized, “but after staying in office for just six months, you begin to complain about how Nigerians are angry.” Wike continued, “I have consistently challenged everyone to show their performance records. As Senate President, show the people of Benue State and Otukpo what you accomplished — was it just about flying in a helicopter to Otukpo? We are here, within just 16 days, showing our own scorecards with results on the ground.” He declared the moment as “Operation Show Your Scorecard,” challenging opposition figures to reveal their impact while in office. Wike maintained that God granted them the privilege to lead and serve Nigerians, but they failed to deliver happiness and progress. “Because you have left office, you are now claiming Nigerians are angry — just because you want to return to power,” Wike said, concluding with a strong statement: “You will not return to power.”
