The Rivers State chapter of the African Democratic Congress (ADC) has raised serious allegations of electoral manipulation, claiming that individuals linked to the Rainbow Coalition, including the Vice Chancellor of the University of Port Harcourt (UNIPORT), Professor Princewill Chike, are planning to rig the forthcoming election. In a video statement released to DAILY POST, the party’s Publicity Secretary, Chizy Enyi, accused Professor Chike of being a direct appointee of Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, and an active member of the socio-political movement known as the Rainbow Coalition.
Enyi stated that there are clear signs that Professor Chike will use his position to influence the appointment of returning officers for the upcoming election, suggesting these officials will be selected from within the coalition. He emphasized that this is not just speculation but based on visible evidence, such as a signpost at the entrance of UNIPORT displaying the VC’s picture alongside the caption “Academia Rainbow Coalition of the Renewed Hope.” This, according to the ADC spokesperson, serves as proof of the VC’s alignment with Wike’s political agenda.
The ADC official further alleged that Professor Chike was not only recommended by Wike but imposed on the university, undermining any notion of independent academic leadership. He warned that if the VC proceeds to nominate returning officers from within the coalition, it could compromise the integrity of the electoral process in Rivers State. “It’s not even election time yet, but see what he is doing,” Enyi said, adding that during the actual election, all recommended officials would likely come from the coalition.
Enyi called on the public to remain vigilant and monitor who is appointed to key electoral roles. “Professor Chike, only God knows what you have come to do in Port Harcourt,” he said. “Let us see those you will recommend. Let us see whether they will rig the election.” The ADC’s claims have sparked concern among political observers and civil society groups, who are urging INEC and other oversight bodies to ensure transparency in the appointment of electoral officers.
As Nigeria prepares for its next general elections, scrutiny over potential interference by political actors in academic institutions has intensified. The allegations against UNIPORT’s leadership highlight growing fears about the politicization of education and its impact on democratic processes. The situation underscores the need for impartiality in the selection of electoral officials, especially in critical states like Rivers, where competition is fierce and stakes are high. Moving forward, the actions of both the university administration and electoral authorities will be closely watched by the public and media alike.
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