On Saturday in Port Harcourt, Rivers State, Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, clarified the position of the Rainbow Coalition on the 2027 governorship election, stating that no candidate has been adopted by the political alliance despite growing speculation within the state.
Wike made the clarification during a luncheon organised for candidates associated with the coalition. Addressing political leaders, party members and supporters, he said the alliance has not reached a decision on who should fly its banner in the governorship race, contrary to claims circulating in some quarters.
According to him, the only position already agreed upon by members of the coalition is their support for President Bola Tinubu and his administration. He explained that discussions concerning the governorship contest remain open and that no aspirant has received the coalition’s backing at this stage.
The minister said the Rainbow Coalition consists of members and candidates drawn from different political parties, including the All Progressives Congress, Peoples Democratic Party, Labour Party and Action Alliance. He noted that the alliance was created to bring together political stakeholders from different backgrounds in pursuit of common goals for Rivers State.
Wike urged candidates and party structures within the coalition to continue their mobilisation efforts across the state while awaiting future consultations that will determine the coalition’s final direction on the governorship election. He added that all candidates currently participating under the coalition remain part of the political arrangement and are free to continue engaging voters.
He also cautioned against premature claims of victory or endorsement, saying such reports create confusion and give the wrong impression about decisions that have not been taken. Wike maintained that any major political decision concerning the coalition would be made collectively through its leadership structure.
The former Rivers governor also spoke about the need for unity among political actors in the state. He said the coalition was formed to encourage cooperation and reduce divisions, adding that the development and stability of Rivers State should remain the priority of all stakeholders regardless of party affiliation.
Wike further criticised some political commentators, activists and media voices whom he accused of benefiting from the persistent political tensions in Rivers State. He argued that the coalition was established partly to promote cooperation among political groups and create a different atmosphere in the state’s political environment.
The minister also questioned the strength of some emerging political parties, saying that experience and established structures remain important factors in electoral contests. He maintained that parties with a proven record of participating in elections across the country possess stronger organisational capacity than newer platforms.
His remarks came as political activities continue to gather pace ahead of the 2027 elections, with parties and alliances positioning themselves for what is expected to be a keenly contested governorship race in Rivers State.