Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, has urged states across the country to study and replicate what he described as Rivers State’s exceptional capacity to forge broad-based political alliances ahead of the 2027 general elections.
Wike said no other state has matched Rivers’ ability to mobilise support across party lines for the re-election of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, a strategy he referred to as the “Rainbow Coalition.”
The former governor of Rivers State made the remarks during a thank-you visit to Ahoada West Local Government Area, where he noted that political engagement in the state has evolved beyond partisan loyalty to embrace unity, shared interests and a collective commitment to national progress. According to him, Rivers remains unique in its approach to politics, where decisions are no longer dictated by party affiliation but by what he described as the “Renewed Hope family.”
Wike urged political stakeholders in other states to adopt the Rivers model, which he characterised as inclusive, organic and people-driven, arguing that such an approach would guarantee overwhelming victory for President Tinubu in the next general elections.
He attributed the state’s political resilience to a long-standing culture of cooperation, consensus-building and mutual respect, which, he said, has enabled Rivers to withstand repeated attempts to weaken its political structure.
The FCT minister expressed confidence that, as 2027 approaches, political actors would increasingly coalesce around a common platform, stressing that unity remains the most potent weapon in electoral contests. However, he cautioned against complacency, admitting that previous political arrangements had yielded undesirable outcomes.
“We have made mistakes before. Agreements were reached, people emerged, and everyone saw how it ended. Those errors will not be repeated. Politics requires firmness, clarity and the courage to move forward, not backward,” Wike said.
He dismissed claims of marginalisation or suppression of opposition forces in the state, insisting that the will of the people has prevailed and that no group has been excluded from the political process. Wike also commended Rivers residents for standing with President Tinubu at a time when many Nigerians doubted his electoral prospects, describing their support as bold, patriotic and deserving of recognition.
Speaking on his appointment as FCT minister, Wike said the role reflects the character, resilience and contributions of Rivers people to national development, adding that ongoing infrastructural projects in Abuja mirror the work ethic historically associated with the state. He urged Nigerians to support leaders and policies that deliver tangible results, emphasising that governance should be assessed by performance rather than sentiment.
“Now is the time for unity. Where governance is working, it should be encouraged. Leadership must be built on trust, results and shared responsibility,” he said.
In his closing remarks, Wike thanked his supporters for their continued loyalty and assured them of sustained engagement, describing gratitude as a fundamental attribute of leadership.
Earlier, the Chairman of Ahoada West Local Government Area, Hon. Chita Eugene Epelle, described Wike’s visit as a great honour to the council, praising his leadership qualities and record in public service.
“Despite your demanding schedule, you chose to visit Ahoada West. We welcome you as our leader, our pride and a worthy son of this land,” Epelle said, reaffirming the council’s support and praying for strength, wisdom and good health as the minister continues to serve the nation.