Nyesom Wike’s Rainbow Coalition is facing growing opposition in several parts of Nigeria as APC governors and party leaders question its impact on the ruling party ahead of the 2027 general elections. Although the FCT minister says the alliance is focused on securing President Bola Tinubu’s re-election, critics argue that supporting Tinubu while backing opposition candidates in other elections could weaken the APC.
The coalition has encountered strong resistance in Imo, Cross River and Benue, while its structures in Ogun, Kaduna and Delta remain uncertain or have struggled to gain a distinct presence. However, the alliance has found support in Rivers, Bayelsa, Osun and Nasarawa, where influential politicians are mobilising supporters for Tinubu across party lines. Bayelsa’s coalition leaders have also announced plans to begin state-level campaign activities on November 9.
Wike has maintained that his commitment is to Tinubu’s second-term ambition and does not extend to supporting APC governors or other party candidates. He insists the Rainbow Coalition is here to stay and argues that voters should be free to support Tinubu for president while choosing different candidates in governorship and legislative elections. The arrangement continues to expose divisions over party loyalty as political preparations for 2027 intensify.
