In a recent interview on Channels Television, human rights advocate and Rivers elder stateswoman Annkio Briggs raised concerns about political influence and possible interference in Nigeria’s democratic process ahead of the 2027 general elections.…....
During the discussion, Briggs alleged that Nyesom Wike had made comments suggesting that Ireti Kingibe would not return to the Senate.
According to Briggs, “Wike has told Ireti Kingibe, who is representing the FCT, that she will not return as senator.” She made the statement while speaking about what she described as growing political pressure and interference involving influential political figures.
She referenced Senator Kingibe’s political future as part of wider concerns about the current state of Nigeria’s political environment and the increasing influence of powerful individuals in electoral matters.
Briggs also argued that Wike’s continued involvement in political affairs has fueled national conversations about fairness, internal party democracy, and respect for the choices made by voters.
According to her, situations like these raise important questions about whether electoral outcomes are being determined by the genuine will of the people or by the influence of politically powerful actors.
The activist stressed that democracy should be built on free participation, fairness, and equal opportunity for all contestants regardless of party affiliation or political disagreements.
She further noted that Nigerians are becoming increasingly conscious of political strategies ahead of elections and are paying close attention to how parties manage candidate selection and political representation.
Briggs concluded by calling on political leaders and stakeholders to uphold democratic values by allowing citizens to freely choose their representatives without intimidation, manipulation, or undue interference.
