The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, says political relevance and electoral success in Rivers State are now tied to membership of what he described as the “Rainbow Coalition.”

Wike made the remark in Port Harcourt during a luncheon for candidates aligned with the coalition, where he spoke on the state’s evolving political alignments.

According to him, anyone seeking elective office in Rivers State must identify with the group if they hope to succeed at the polls.

“If you want to be relevant in the politics of Rivers State, come and join the Rainbow Coalition,” he said.

“If you’re not in the Rainbow Coalition, you can’t get any elective position in Rivers State — from the governor to the Senate, House of Representatives, House of Assembly, and local government chairmanship.”

Wike also expressed appreciation to Tonye Cole, the 2023 APC governorship candidate in Rivers State, for aligning with his political camp, describing the move as significant.

“Let me also thank Tonye Cole. I spoke to our leader, Chief Ferdinand Alabraba, that he should be in attendance at our next leadership meeting,” he added.