The Resource Centre for Human Rights and Civic Education (CHRICED) has called for an investigation into recent comments by Federal Capital Territory Minister Nyesom Wike concerning the political strategy adopted by the G5 governors during Nigeria’s 2023 presidential election.
CHRICED Executive Director, Comrade Dr Ibrahim M. Zikirullahi, said in a statement in Abuja that Wike’s remarks raised questions about electoral integrity and the influence of powerful political actors on election outcomes.
Wike had said during a television programme on September 21 that the G5 governors adopted a strategy aimed at weakening the electoral chances of then Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) presidential candidate Atiku Abubakar in the South-South. He cited Edo and Cross River states, where Labour Party candidate Peter Obi won, while saying Rivers State was treated differently.
CHRICED said the comments deserved clarification and should not be dismissed as political rhetoric, arguing that any deliberate interference with voters’ choices would undermine public confidence in Nigeria’s electoral process.
The organisation called on the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), the National Assembly, the Attorney-General of the Federation and relevant security agencies to examine the claims and determine whether any electoral laws were breached.
It also urged Wike and the other former G5 governors to clarify what was meant by “allowing” Obi to win in some states and stopping him from winning Rivers State.
Wike has since rejected allegations that he rigged the 2023 presidential election, saying the G5’s actions amounted to political strategy rather than manipulation of election results.
CHRICED further called for stronger electoral safeguards, greater voter education and measures to protect election officials from political interference ahead of the 2027 general elections.
The group said restoring public confidence in elections would require transparent procedures, accountable political actors and credible processes that ensure voters determine electoral outcomes.
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