FCT Minister, Nyesom Wike, has dismissed concerns by some All Progressives Congress, APC, governors that the proposed Rainbow Coalition could weaken the party ahead of the 2027 elections.

Speaking on TVC’s Journalists’ Hangout, Wike said the coalition was primarily focused on mobilising support for President Bola Tinubu’s re-election, while politicians would remain free to contest governorship and legislative elections on their respective party platforms.

Wike alleged that the opposition of some APC governors to the coalition was linked to their political interests, particularly attempts to influence the emergence of the next leadership of the National Assembly.

He specifically mentioned Imo State Governor and Chairman of the Progressive Governors’ Forum, Hope Uzodimma, alleging that he was positioning himself for the Senate presidency after leaving office. The claim is Wike’s allegation; reports say Uzodimma has not engaged Wike over the matter.

The disagreement comes amid growing differences between Wike and some APC governors over the Rainbow Coalition. The governors have said they would not support political arrangements they believe could weaken the APC or adversely affect its candidates in the 2027 elections.

Wike, however, maintains that the coalition is a multi-party platform focused on supporting Tinubu’s presidential bid and is separate from the APC.