Federal Capital Territory Minister Nyesom Wike told a gathering in Rivers State on Tuesday that the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and its National Working Committee have reached a consensus: every PDP member across Nigeria must rally behind President Bola Ahmed Tinubu in the 2027 general election. The statement was made during the unveiling of the Rainbow Coalition’s slate of preferred candidates for the upcoming polls.
What agreement was reached?
Wike explained that, as the party’s national leader, he and the NWC have decided that the PDP will uniformly endorse Tinubu’s re‑election bid. He said the decision reflects the party’s official stance and the backing of its governing body.
Which states are targeted?
He listed several states, including Imo, Kwara, Gombe, Zamfara and Ogun, urging PDP members there to cast their votes for Tinubu. The aim, according to Wike, is to create a cross‑party front that unites supporters from different political backgrounds behind the incumbent president.
Who can speak for the PDP?
Wike stressed that only the party officials he identified – the chairman of the Board of Trustees, Mao Ohuabunwa, and the national chairman, Abdulrahman Mohammed – together with himself, have the authority to represent the PDP. He cited the Independent National Electoral Commission’s (INEC) recognition of these individuals as evidence that there is no “factional” leadership within the party.
What is the Rainbow Coalition?
The coalition, described by Wike as a “no‑harm” platform, was formed to bring together politicians from various parties in support of Tinubu. During the Rivers State event, the coalition announced its preferred candidates, naming Kingsley Chinda – the All Progressives Congress (APC) governorship candidate – as its point of contact.
How does Wike envision Rivers State’s role?
He declared that Rivers State is fully aligned with Tinubu and pledged that the state would avoid the violence and political crises that have plagued it in the past. Wike assured listeners that the state would now enjoy unity and stability under the coalition’s banner.
What broader message was conveyed?
Wike concluded by noting that observers from across the country are watching the coalition’s activities. He reiterated that the Rainbow Coalition’s purpose is solely to foster collaboration among parties to secure Tinubu’s re‑election, emphasizing that the initiative poses no threat to any political group.
The announcement marks a significant step in consolidating support for the incumbent president ahead of the 2027 electoral cycle, signalling a coordinated effort by the PDP and allied figures to present a united front nationwide.