FCT minister says cross-party coalition in Rivers is backing the President, insists alliance is focused on development rather than party politics…………..
The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, has declared that President Bola Tinubu remains the only presidential candidate capable of securing victory in Rivers State during the 2027 general election.
Wike made the statement on Tuesday during his monthly media briefing in Abuja, where he challenged political actors to reconsider their projections for Rivers State if President Tinubu is not included among candidates expected to win the state.
According to the former Rivers State governor, the President enjoys broad support across political divides, adding that a coalition involving members of different parties has been formed to work together in the interest of the state while supporting Tinubu’s re-election bid.
“If anybody is counting Rivers, go now and cancel it. The only person that can count Rivers is Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu,” Wike said, describing his position as a reflection of his understanding of the political dynamics in the state.
The FCT minister said the emerging coalition cuts across party lines, with members of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), All Progressives Congress (APC), Labour Party (LP), Action Alliance (AA) and other political groups involved in the arrangement.
He explained that the coalition would not be restricted by party identity when selecting candidates for legislative positions, saying support would be based on individual acceptability rather than political affiliation.
“Whoever emerges should not be seen as APC or PDP; the person should be seen as the coalition’s candidate,” he said.
Wike described the movement as inclusive and claimed it was gaining momentum across Rivers State, adding that its primary objective was to support Tinubu and promote the interests of the state.
He dismissed claims that the coalition was designed to strengthen any particular political party, insisting that the focus was on attracting development, projects and opportunities to Rivers.
“For me, what matters is Rivers State. If Rivers State is relevant because projects are coming and people are benefiting from government, then I am satisfied,” he said.
Reflecting on his political journey, which began in 1999 and has included roles as a local government chairman, governor and minister, Wike said experience has shaped his approach to politics and leadership.
He argued that effective politics requires understanding the needs of the people and making strategic decisions that align with their interests.
The minister also recalled the 2019 Rivers State governorship election, alleging that significant federal resources and security forces were deployed against him during the contest.
Wike said his administration overcame those challenges through the support of the people, adding that public trust remains the foundation of his political influence.
He maintained that leaders succeed when they carry citizens along and earn their confidence through consistent engagement and delivery.
“Once the people trust you, they believe that what you tell them will happen. Leadership is about carrying the people along,” he said.
