Rivers Rainbow Coalition still without 2027 governor pick

A major political coalition in Rivers State has yet to decide on a unified candidate for the 2027 governorship election, according to the Federal Capital Territory Minister, Nyesom Wike. Speaking at a luncheon in Port Harcourt on Saturday, Wike dismissed speculation that a candidate had already been selected, stating the decision would be made collectively by the coalition’s leadership.

The alliance, known as the Rainbow Coalition, includes members from the Peoples Democratic Party, the All Progressives Congress, the Labour Party, and the Action Alliance. Wike said the only formal agreement reached so far is to support President Bola Tinubu’s re-election. He warned against premature claims of victory by any aspirant, saying such statements create a false impression and undermine the coalition’s process.

Wike, a former governor of Rivers State, asserted that the coalition is now the dominant political force in the state and is essential for anyone seeking elective office. He invited all aspiring politicians to join the group, emphasizing that candidates from all four member parties are considered qualified. He urged these candidates to continue grassroots mobilization until a...