Wike Asserts Tinubu as Sole Viable Candidate for Rivers in 2027
Federal Capital Territory Minister Nyesom Wike declared on Tuesday that President Bola Tinubu is the only presidential candidate capable of winning Rivers State in the 2027 general election. Speaking during his monthly media briefing in Abuja, Wike emphasized that his assessment is rooted in political realism and a deep understanding of his constituents.
Cross‑Party Coalition Formed to Back Tinubu’s Bid
Wike revealed that a coalition comprising members of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), the All Progressives Congress (APC), the Labour Party (LP), the Action Alliance (AA) and other political groups has agreed to collaborate in Rivers State. The alliance has pledged to support Tinubu’s bid for a second term, placing the state’s welfare above partisan differences.
Candidate Selection Based on Acceptability, Not Party Affiliation
The coalition has decided that candidates for the National Assembly and the Rivers State House of Assembly will be chosen on the basis of public acceptability rather than party identity. According to Wike, those elected should be regarded as representatives of the coalition, not as APC or PDP nominees.
State Interest Over Personal Ambition
Wike stressed that his motivation is the progress is purely the advancement of Rivers State. He noted that if the state benefits from federal projects and its people experience tangible improvements, his objective is met. Personal ambition, he said, plays no role in his calculations.
Reflections on Leadership and Political Experience
Drawing on more than two decades of political involvement since 1999, Wike remarked that nobody can instruct him on navigating politics. He recalled past challenges, including military deployments that felt like a war, and credited the people’s trust as the foundation of effective leadership — a principle he says continues to guide his actions.
About the Author
