FCT minister backs Rainbow Coalition’s grip on Rivers politics, dismisses opposition as inexperienced and untested.

Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, has declared that former Vice President Atiku Abubakar and the African Democratic Congress (ADC) stand no chance of securing up to 10 percent of the vote in Rivers State in the 2027 general elections.

Wike made the assertion during a luncheon organised to honour candidates of the Rainbow Coalition in Rivers State, where he reaffirmed his camp’s dominance in the state’s political landscape.

The former Rivers State governor insisted that the governorship seat in 2027 would be won solely by a candidate endorsed by the Rainbow Coalition, dismissing any possibility of victory for opposition parties.

Taking aim at rival platforms, Wike described the ADC and the National Democratic Congress (NDC) as lacking the experience and structure required to contest elections effectively. According to him, both parties are more familiar with political defections than with the realities of winning elections.

He said the 2027 polls would expose their limitations, particularly in Rivers State, where he maintains a strong political base.

Wike also criticised what he called performative political loyalty, arguing that public declarations of support for the president or courtesy visits do not translate into electoral success. He emphasised that real political strength lies in the ability to mobilise voters and deliver results at the polls.

Citing the 2023 presidential election, Wike noted that Atiku failed to secure up to 10 percent of the vote in Rivers State, insisting that the situation would not improve in 2027. He maintained that even matching that performance would be unlikely.

The FCT minister further questioned Atiku’s political approach, suggesting that electoral success requires sustained grassroots engagement and hard work.

Reinforcing his confidence, Wike said his political structure has consistently delivered victories in Rivers State, even under difficult conditions, adding that future elections would be no exception.