Nyesom Wike Defends Rainbow Coalition Amid APC Governor Disputes

Federal Capital Territory Minister Nyesom Wike defended the Rainbow Coalition, a cross-party platform designed to mobilize support for President Bola Ahmed Tinubu's 2027 re-election. Speaking during road project inspections in Abuja and on TVC's Journalists’ Hangout, Wike dismissed allegations that the coalition is a vehicle for his own 2031 presidential ambitions or an attempt to weaken the All Progressives Congress (APC).

The initiative faced opposition from the Progressive Governors Forum, led by Governor Hope Uzodimma of Imo State, and Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq of Kwara State. These leaders argued the coalition could destabilize the APC and undermine official party candidates. Wike countered by labeling the opposing governors "lazy politicians" and specifically alleged that Uzodimma's opposition is driven by a personal ambition to become Senate President in 2027.

Wike asserted that President Tinubu is fully aware of the coalition's activities and that his support for the president is not motivated by personal gain. Meanwhile, Representative Abdulmumini Jibrin Kofa warned that the APC is more dependent on Wike than he is on the party, suggesting that failure to negotiate with Wike could lead to a broader rebellion coalition against the ruling party ahead of the 2027 elections.