Manny Ita –
The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, on Friday said Rivers State was “battle-ready” to support President Bola Tinubu’s re-election bid in 2027, as early political maneuvering intensified ahead of Nigeria’s next general election.
Wike made the declaration while speaking at a public event in Abuja, where he praised Tinubu’s administration and dismissed suggestions that internal political divisions in Rivers State would weaken support for the president. “Rivers State is battle-ready for President Bola Tinubu’s re-election in 2027,” Wike said. “We know how to mobilise, and we know how to win elections.”
The former Rivers State governor said Tinubu’s leadership deserved continuity, arguing that the president had taken difficult but necessary decisions. He urged supporters to begin laying the groundwork early. “Politics is about structure and preparedness,” Wike said. “Those who are serious about 2027 must start now.”
Wike’s remarks come amid ongoing political realignments within the ruling All Progressives Congress and across opposition parties, as prominent figures test alliances and messaging well ahead of the polls.
At the same time, supporters of former Kano State governor and New Nigeria Peoples Party leader Rabiu Kwankwaso have begun publicly floating the idea of a possible Peter Obi–Rabiu Kwankwaso presidential ticket for 2027, a move that has generated debate within opposition circles.
Advocates of the proposed alliance argue that a combination of Obi, the Labour Party’s 2023 presidential candidate, and Kwankwaso could consolidate support across southern and northern regions. “An Obi-Kwankwaso ticket would reflect national balance and respond to the yearnings of voters seeking an alternative,” one Kwankwaso supporter said.
Neither Obi nor Kwankwaso has formally commented on the proposal, and officials from both camps have described the discussions as speculative. However, party insiders say consultations and informal talks are increasingly common as politicians assess possible coalitions capable of challenging the ruling party.
Analysts note that while the 2027 election remains more than a year away, early declarations and trial balloons signal heightened political activity driven by lessons from the closely contested 2023 polls.
For now, Tinubu’s allies are projecting confidence, while opposition figures weigh the viability of cross-party alliances in a political landscape that is already beginning to take shape.
