Hon. Kingsley Chinda, the All Progressive Congress (APC) governorship candidate in Rivers State, has pledged to run an inclusive administration that fosters political harmony if elected in 2027. Chinda, also the preferred candidate of the Rainbow Coalition, made this commitment during a grand rally in Port Harcourt. He emphasized that the coalition aims to end political divisions and promote unity among various parties in the state. Chinda's administration, he assured, would prioritize peace, progress, and development.
The Rainbow Coalition, led by Chief Nyesom Wike, Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), and supported by Governor Siminalayi Fubara, seeks to promote peaceful elections and a smooth transition of power. Chinda commended Wike for bringing stakeholders together under the coalition's umbrella and lauded Fubara for presenting flags to the candidates. He expressed optimism that the alliance would improve the lives of Rivers residents. The coalition's vision, Chinda stated, extends beyond electoral victory, aiming to accommodate people of all political affiliations, gender, and religious beliefs.
Governor Fubara, during the presentation of flags to the Rainbow Coalition candidates, urged members to put aside past disagreements and work together under a common leadership. He acknowledged Wike's role in his political journey and described him as the leader of the Rainbow Coalition. Fubara pledged to support the coalition's candidates and President Tinubu's re-election bid, expressing confidence that cooperation among stakeholders would strengthen the alliance.
Chief Wike, addressing the gathering, urged PDP members and other parties to support President Tinubu's re-election. He called on politicians to set aside party differences and work towards the coalition's objectives. Wike described the Rainbow Coalition as a common platform for stakeholders from different parties to support the President and candidates seeking elective offices in Rivers State.
Wike also addressed divisions within the PDP, rejecting attempts to portray him as a factional leader. He criticized some opposition figures, including former Rivers State Governor Rotimi Amaechi and former Vice-President Atiku Abubakar, over their political ambitions and records in public office. Meanwhile, former Senator Magnus Abe called on Amaechi to withdraw from the ADC vice-presidential arrangement with Abubakar, citing the principle of power rotation between the North and South.
Senator Abe argued that the presidency should remain in Southern Nigeria, emphasizing that political leaders should respect the power rotation agreement. He recalled the controversy surrounding former President Goodluck Jonathan's re-election bid and Amaechi's previous opposition to Jonathan's ambition on the grounds of power rotation. Abe reaffirmed the coalition's support for President Tinubu, declaring their commitment to his presidency.
The event featured the presentation of candidates for various elective positions under the Rainbow Coalition. Governor Fubara also charged traditional rulers in the state to maintain neutrality, ensure fairness, and uphold peace in their domains as the country prepares for the 2027 general elections.
Key points
- Hon. Kingsley Chinda promises an inclusive administration to end political acrimony in Rivers State.
- The Rainbow Coalition, led by Chief Wike, aims to promote peaceful elections and a smooth transition of power.
- Governor Fubara and Senator Abe reaffirm support for President Tinubu's re-election bid.
