The Rivers State chapter of the All Progressives Congress (APC) has officially refuted claims of a brewing disagreement between its state chairman, Chief Tony Okocha, and the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike. The party stated on Saturday that the speculations of a political fallout are entirely false and driven by opponents seeking to cause division within their ranks.
Addressing the public through a statement issued by the party's Publicity Secretary, Chibike Ikenga, the APC clarified that Chief Tony Okocha was absent from a recent Rainbow Coalition event because he had traveled overseas for urgent medical attention. According to the party leadership, Okocha's health had deteriorated, necessitating the medical trip, which conveniently coincided with the unveiling of candidates endorsed by the coalition ahead of the upcoming electoral cycle.
Why was Chief Tony Okocha absent from the coalition event?
The party emphasized that Okocha's absence should not be misconstrued as a boycott or a sign of friction with the FCT Minister, who serves as a prominent figure in regional politics. Instead, the APC noted that the state chairman duly informed and obtained approval from Nyesom Wike, whom the party acknowledged as the National Leader of the Rainbow Coalition, prior to his departure.
"There is NO DISAGREEMENT whatsoever and the Chairman will reunite with the party executive and the Rainbow Coalition upon his return from his medical trip," the official statement read. The leadership urged all loyal party members and supporters to disregard the fabricated rumors, reassuring the public that the coalition remains unified.
What is the focus of the Rainbow Coalition in Rivers State?
Despite the chairman's temporary absence, the APC confirmed that the unveiling event for the coalition-endorsed candidates proceeded successfully. The party reaffirmed its dedication to collaborating with all allied political groups under the banner of the Rainbow Coalition.
Furthermore, the chapter stated its unwavering commitment to securing electoral success for President Bola Tinubu, its governorship hopeful Kingsley Ogundu Chinda, and other coalition-backed candidates in the 2027 general elections. The party maintains that such strategic partnerships are vital for consolidating political stability and development in Rivers State.