Nyesom Wike, the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, has clarified that the Rainbow Coalition in Rivers State has not yet selected a candidate for the 2027 governorship election. He dismissed media reports suggesting otherwise, emphasizing that the coalition’s only decision so far is to back President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.
Speaking at a Port Harcourt luncheon for coalition candidates, Wike stated, ‘We have not chosen a gubernatorial candidate for Rivers State. However, party candidates exist under the Rainbow Coalition.’ He warned aspirants and their backers against premature celebrations, noting that such claims could mislead the public about the coalition’s stance and his role as a member of the People’s Democratic Party.
The Rainbow Coalition is a broad alliance comprising the All Progressives Congress, People’s Democratic Party, Labour Party, and Action Alliance. Wike explained that candidates from these parties remain eligible, and the coalition’s leadership will decide collectively. He urged grassroots mobilization until a formal decision is reached.
Wike also criticized years of negative portrayal of Rivers politics, accusing activists and media of profiting from instability. He stressed that the coalition aims for unity and development, regardless of political affiliations. ‘God said we must come together for our state’s development and unity,’ he said.
Additionally, Wike downplayed smaller parties like the African Democratic Congress, asserting that only the APC, PDP, and Labour Party have the experience and capacity to contest national elections effectively.