Abuja – The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, announced that the emerging “rainbow coalition” in Rivers State will implement a targeted strategy in preparation for the 2027 general elections. This strategy will concentrate on constituencies where the coalition holds political strength. Wike made these remarks on Monday while inspecting ongoing infrastructure projects in the capital, coinciding with events marking the third anniversary of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration.
During his inspection, Wike explained that coalition members will first assess the political landscape across Rivers State before determining their voting strategy. He stated, “That is the essence of the rainbow coalition in Rivers State. We’ll look at where we have strength, compare notes, and vote accordingly.” Additionally, the former governor of Rivers State distanced himself from the internal screening process of the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) in the state. He emphasized that he is not a member of the APC and lacks knowledge about the party’s aspirant selection. “I don’t know what is happening in their screening. Even if they publish the results, why would I comment? I don’t know the reasons they have,” Wike remarked. He further dismissed speculation linking him to party affairs outside his political circle, asserting, “What pertains to me is what I will talk about, not what does not concern me. I’m not a native doctor, neither am I a prophet.”
On the infrastructure front, Wike expressed satisfaction with the progress of several projects set for inauguration during the Tinubu third-anniversary celebrations. Contractors responsible for key road works have assured that outstanding tasks, including street-light installations, will be completed by the end of May. “We are very happy. They promised that before the end of the month they will finish the streetlights, and that is being handled by Green Book and Lubrix,” he stated. He highlighted advancements on the Dutse-Alhaji-to-M5 road, executed by Lubrix, and noted that a separate road project undertaken by the China Civil Engineering Construction Corporation (CCCC) is already complete, pending final street-light fittings. “The contractor, CCCC, has promised that within the next ten days they will complete the streetlights. We are very comfortable and happy,” Wike added.
Moreover, a major bridge in Abuja, designed to facilitate traffic to the Kubwa area, is nearing completion. “The bridge has been launched, and they have started the connection that will direct traffic from here to Kubwa. It is a wonderful thing. We are happy,” the minister remarked. He attributed these achievements to the Tinubu administration’s commitment to infrastructure renewal and commended the quality of work delivered by the contractors.
Addressing concerns regarding the conduct of officials from the Abuja Municipal Area Council (AMAC) during tax-collection drives, Wike acknowledged that tax compliance remains a challenge. “There must be a civilized way of collecting taxes, but knowing our taxpayers, people don’t like to pay tax. When tax collectors come, they find one excuse or the other,” he noted. However, he pointed out that no formal complaints have been lodged with the FCT administration regarding AMAC’s conduct.
Wike’s remarks highlight the dual focus of Rivers State politics and FCT development as Nigeria approaches the 2027 electoral cycle while commemorating three years of President Tinubu’s tenure. The upcoming elections and the scheduled infrastructure inaugurations are likely to influence both regional political alignments and the urban landscape of the capital.
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