No anointed candidate for Rivers governorship — Wike

Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, has dismissed claims that any governorship candidate has been endorsed under the “Rainbow Coalition” ahead of the 2027 elections in Rivers State.

Speaking at a coalition luncheon in Port Harcourt on Saturday, Wike clarified that while the political alliance has agreed to support President Bola Tinubu, no decision has been taken on who will fly its flag in the governorship race.

He cautioned against what he described as premature celebrations by some aspirants, saying such claims create a false narrative and could undermine political credibility, particularly given his membership of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP).

According to him, the coalition remains an inclusive platform bringing together the All Progressives Congress (APC), PDP, Labour Party (LP) and Action Alliance (AA), with all candidates from the parties still in contention.

Wike said the only consensus reached so far is collective backing for Tinubu, adding that the choice of a governorship candidate would be decided later through consultations led by the coalition’s leadership.

He urged all participating parties to continue grassroots mobilisation while awaiting a formal meeting where a unified position would be adopted.

The minister also criticised external commentators, activists and sections of the media, accusing them of exploiting Rivers State’s political tensions for personal gain. He said the coalition was formed to promote unity and redirect focus toward development.

Wike further downplayed the influence of newer political parties, including the African Democratic Congress (ADC), arguing that media visibility and defections do not equate to strong electoral structures.

He maintained that established parties such as the PDP, APC and LP have demonstrated the capacity to organise and win elections at both state and national levels.