The Minister of Works, Senator David Umahi, has clarified that there is no "rainbow coalition" in Ebonyi State, emphasizing the state's continued alignment with the All Progressives Congress (APC) and its candidates. This statement comes amid disagreements between the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, and some APC governors over political arrangements ahead of the 2027 general elections.
The Rainbow Coalition, a multi-party political platform promoted by Wike, aims to mobilize support for President Bola Tinubu's re-election in 2027. Wike has stated that the coalition is separate from the APC, allowing politicians from different parties to support Tinubu for president while retaining freedom to contest or support candidates in other elections.
Umahi made these remarks during an inspection of the Calabar-Abuja Superhighway in Benue State, where he also directed contractors to accelerate construction. According to a statement issued by the Senior Special Assistant to the Minister of Works on Media, Francis Nwaze, Umahi inspected Section Two of the project at Ado and emphasized the need for speedy completion.
Umahi described Wike as his friend and brother but stressed that a rainbow coalition-style arrangement would not work in Ebonyi State. He mentioned that if Wike has candidates in Ebonyi, he has not been informed, and such candidates would not affect his relationship with Wike.
The former Ebonyi governor revisited his criticism of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), citing that he left the party due to its failure to recognize the interests of the South-East. Umahi recalled that the PDP had been supported by his group, who voted for presidents under the party, but felt unappreciated when it was their turn for recognition.
Umahi warned political actors against hate speech and attempts to cause disorder in Ebonyi State, stating that anyone wishing to campaign in the state is free to do so but must avoid hate speeches and disorderly conduct. He emphasized that nobody can foment crisis in Ebonyi State and directed that no building should be demolished or touched along the project alignment until the Federal Government concludes a review and, where necessary, realigns the route.
The project, being executed under an EPC Plus Finance arrangement, involves Section Two covering 173 kilometres and valued at N683 billion, while Section One is valued at N454 billion. Umahi commended the contractor for progress recorded and directed that at least three sections of the first element of Section Two should be opened simultaneously to increase the pace of work.
Key points
- Umahi insists there is no rainbow coalition in Ebonyi State.
- The Minister of Works emphasizes Ebonyi State's continued alignment with the APC.
- Umahi directs contractors to accelerate construction of the Calabar-Abuja Superhighway.
