The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, has stated that his primary concern is securing the re-election of President Bola Tinubu in the 2027 presidential election. Wike made this statement while speaking to newsmen in Abuja after inspecting ongoing road projects across the FCT. He emphasized that his immediate political priority is the continuation of Tinubu's administration beyond 2027.
Wike dismissed allegations that the cross-party Rainbow Coalition, which he is associated with, was established to destabilize existing political parties. He described the allegations as "baseless" and insisted that the coalition aims to bring together individuals from different political platforms that support Tinubu's administration. According to Wike, the coalition does not seek to prevent anyone from supporting other political interests but encourages its members to support Tinubu.
The Minister expressed disappointment over claims that the Rainbow Coalition would destabilize political parties. He questioned why similar concerns were not raised during the 2023 general elections when the G5 governors were involved. Wike recalled that the G5 governors played a significant role in the 2023 elections, and their actions did not affect the APC-controlled National Assembly or the President's chances.
Wike also dismissed speculation that his current political realignment is aimed at positioning himself for the presidency in 2031. He stated that his focus is on supporting Tinubu's re-election and that God ultimately determines the future. Wike recalled that he contested the 2022 presidential primaries and came second, adding that his political experience has exposed him to the complexities of Nigerian politics.
Senator Adeniyi Adegbomire, Chairman of the Senate Committee on Judiciary, described the Rainbow Coalition as an anti-party move against the interest of the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC). Adegbomire, who represents Ondo Central Senatorial District, stated that those promoting or aligning with the coalition are working against the interests of the ruling party and its candidates ahead of the 2027 general elections.
Adegbomire also criticized the promise by former Vice President Alhaji Atiku Abubakar to restore petroleum subsidy if elected in 2027. He argued that Nigerians should consider the broader economic consequences of subsidy policy rather than focusing only on the immediate cost of petrol. Adegbomire expressed confidence that the APC would win the 2027 election, citing the opposition parties' lack of strength to challenge the party.
Wike inspected ongoing road projects in the FCT, expressing satisfaction with the pace and quality of work. The projects are expected to be delivered before the January 2027 general elections. He inspected the construction of the Inner Southern Expressway, service lanes of the Southern Parkway, and the road linking Nile University to Ring Road III.
Key points
- Wike reiterates support for Tinubu's re-election in 2027.
- The Rainbow Coalition aims to support Tinubu's administration, not destabilize existing parties.
- Adegbomire criticizes the Rainbow Coalition as an anti-party move against the APC.
