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 making a significant impact in Rivers State during the 2027 presidential election.
The former Rivers State governor confidently stated that Atiku would not secure up to 10 per cent of the votes cast in the state, insisting that the political structure controlled by the Rainbow Coalition remains too strong for any opposition challenge.
Wike made the remarks during a luncheon organised in honour of candidates of the Rainbow Coalition ahead of the 2027 general elections in Rivers State.
The coalition consists of members from the All Progressives Congress (APC), Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Labour Party (LP), and Action Alliance (AA).
Speaking to supporters, Wike maintained that the coalition would determine who becomes the next governor of Rivers State, stressing that no candidate outside the alliance would emerge victorious in the election.
He also dismissed speculation that any individual had already been chosen as the coalition’s governorship candidate, insisting that consultations were still ongoing among the four parties.
Turning his attention to the opposition, Wike argued that parties like the ADC and the National Democratic Congress (NDC) lack practical electoral experience and are unfamiliar with the realities of winning elections.
According to him, political defections and media appearances cannot replace grassroots mobilisation and electoral structures.
“Atiku did not get up to 10 per cent of the votes in Rivers State in 2023. If he gets 10 per cent in 2027, it means he has improved. We will work hard to ensure that does not happen,” Wike said.
The minister further challenged opposition politicians to focus on building support at the grassroots rather than relying on public statements and political endorsements.
He argued that elections are won through organisation, mobilisation, and voter engagement, not television appearances.
Wike also praised members of the Rivers State House of Assembly, led by Speaker Martin Amaewhule, for what he described as their commitment to protecting democracy and standing against lawlessness during the state’s political crisis.
According to him, their actions played a major role in shaping the current political landscape in Rivers State.
His comments come as political activities continue to intensify ahead of the 2027 elections, with various parties and alliances positioning themselves for what is expected to be a fiercely contested race.
