Ondo State Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa has expressed support for the Rainbow Coalition, a cross-party arrangement led by FCT Minister Nyesom Wike, aimed at supporting President Bola Tinubu's 2027 re-election bid. In an interview on Channels Television's Politics Today, Aiyedatiwa stated that he sees nothing wrong with the coalition, emphasizing that politics is about interests, relationships, and alliances. He maintained that his allegiance in Ondo remains with the All Progressives Congress (APC).
Aiyedatiwa's endorsement of the Rainbow Coalition comes despite the rejection of the idea by the Progressives Governors Forum, a group of APC governors. The governor argued that politicians have the freedom to associate with platforms that reflect their objectives, citing the existence of various support groups backing President Tinubu. He likened the Rainbow Coalition to these support groups, stating that if it is also a form of support group for the president, there is nothing wrong with it.
The Rainbow Coalition, led by Wike, has been a subject of controversy within the APC, with some members expressing concerns that it could weaken the party. However, Wike has maintained that his priority in 2027 is Tinubu's re-election and that the coalition is not aimed at undermining the APC or other political parties. Aiyedatiwa's support for the coalition is seen as a significant development, given his position as a governor from the APC.
Aiyedatiwa emphasized that his relationship with Wike is cordial, stating that he has no problem with the FCT Minister. He also noted that his support for the Rainbow Coalition does not affect his loyalty to the APC in Ondo State. The governor's comments suggest that there may be divisions within the APC regarding the Rainbow Coalition, with some members being more open to the idea than others.
The Progressives Governors Forum has rejected the idea of APC members participating in a cross-party political arrangement, citing concerns about the party's unity and integrity. However, Aiyedatiwa's endorsement of the Rainbow Coalition suggests that there may be alternative views within the party. The development highlights the complexities of Nigerian politics, where alliances and coalitions can play a significant role in shaping electoral outcomes.
Wike's Rainbow Coalition has been gaining attention in recent weeks, with some analysts suggesting that it could play a crucial role in supporting Tinubu's re-election bid. Aiyedatiwa's support for the coalition adds to the growing list of politicians who have expressed backing for the initiative. The development is likely to be closely watched by political observers, who are keen to see how the coalition will impact the 2027 elections.
The 2027 elections are expected to be highly competitive, with various political parties and alliances vying for power. Aiyedatiwa's endorsement of the Rainbow Coalition is seen as a strategic move, aimed at consolidating support for Tinubu's re-election bid. The development highlights the importance of building alliances and coalitions in Nigerian politics, where electoral outcomes can often be determined by complex webs of relationships and interests.
Key points
- Aiyedatiwa supports Wike's Rainbow Coalition for 2027 elections.
