RismadarVoice Reporters
October 13, 2026
Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, has dismissed claims that Rivers State Governor Siminalayi Fubara has been sidelined in the Rainbow Coalition, insisting that the governor remains actively involved in the political arrangement supporting President Bola Tinubu’s re-election bid in 2027.
Wike asserted in a media chat in Abuja on Tuesday, explaining that Fubara’s reserved personality should not be mistaken for political exclusion or disagreement within the coalition.
“Fubara has not been pushed aside. If you know him, he’s been a very quiet person,” the minister said.
According to Wike, the governor recently hosted a meeting of prominent political stakeholders at his residence to discuss political developments and the coalition’s activities in Rivers State.
He argued that Fubara’s participation in such meetings demonstrated his continued involvement in the political structure.
Wike also disclosed that the coalition had submitted its campaign committee list, adding that Fubara was expected to play a leading role in its activities.
Addressing previous disagreements between himself and the governor, the minister maintained that reconciliation efforts had helped restore their working relationship.
He accused some political figures outside Rivers State of attempting to exploit their earlier differences for political advantage.
The minister insisted that suggestions of continuing hostility between him and Fubara did not reflect the current political arrangement.
On speculation about Fubara’s political future, including the possibility of a federal appointment after leaving office, Wike said he had no constitutional authority to appoint or nominate ministers.
He nevertheless expressed confidence in the governor’s position within the coalition.
Explaining the Rainbow Coalition’s structure, Wike said the arrangement brought together politicians from different parties who shared the objective of supporting Tinubu’s 2027 presidential ambition.
He maintained that participation in the coalition did not require members to abandon their respective political parties or contest elections under a single platform.
“When you talk about politicians that agree to form an umbrella, the umbrella does not mean that all the candidates will be one party,” he said.
Wike further defended the coalition’s approach to allocating political positions and candidacies, saying its decisions reflected the political circumstances of different constituencies.
He said the arrangement was also intended to encourage cooperation among political stakeholders and reduce disputes over electoral contests in Rivers State.
The minister maintained that the coalition would continue coordinating its activities across party lines ahead of the 2027 general elections.
Wike’s remarks represent his account of Fubara’s involvement in the coalition. The governor’s independent position on the specific arrangements was not provided in the statements reported.
