NIGERIA’s political landscape ahead of the 2027 general elections is witnessing a dramatic realignment, as a powerful faction within the People’s Democratic Party (PDP), led by the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, has begun mobilising support for President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s second-term bid—rather than presenting a traditional opposition challenge.
Findings by News Point Nigeria indicate that the Wike-aligned bloc is actively restructuring its political base to align with Tinubu’s re-election ambition, a move that is intensifying internal divisions within the PDP.
Wike has openly declared his support for President Tinubu’s re-election, even extending his backing through 2031.
“I will support President Tinubu for a second term,” the former Rivers State governor has repeatedly stated, dismissing speculations that he might contest the presidency in 2027.
His stance marks a significant shift within the PDP, traditionally the main opposition party to the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC).
Sources within the Wike faction revealed that efforts are underway to build a cross-party alliance, described as a “Rainbow Coalition,” particularly in Rivers State.
The initiative reportedly brings together members of both the PDP and APC to mobilise grassroots support for Tinubu ahead of the 2027 elections.
In addition, the faction has scheduled its own primary elections for May 25, 2027, with a strategy focused on fielding candidates loyal to its bloc and countering rival PDP factions—especially those aligned with northern power structures.
The move has triggered sharp disagreements within the PDP leadership.
Key figures, including Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde, have distanced themselves from Wike’s position, insisting the party must remain a viable opposition force.
While acknowledging Wike’s right to political alignment, dissenting voices within the party have made it clear they will not support Tinubu’s re-election bid.
Insiders allege that the Wike-led faction is attempting to “hold the PDP down” strategically to weaken its capacity to challenge the incumbent president.
The faction is also reportedly navigating internal disputes through the courts while operating a parallel political structure and timeline.
Beyond Rivers State, evidence of cross-party collaboration is emerging in other parts of the country.
In Benue State, a high-level strategic meeting was held at the residence of former governor Samuel Ortom, involving PDP stakeholders and APC figures aligned with Secretary to the Government of the Federation, George Akume.
The meeting focused on mobilising support for Tinubu’s second-term ambition.
However, the APC faction loyal to Governor Hyacinth Alia distanced itself from the gathering, highlighting internal divisions even within the ruling party at the state level.
In a statement issued by the Benue APC Publicity Secretary, Daniel Ihomun, the party signalled openness to cross-party collaboration in support of Tinubu.
The statement emphasised the need for “broad-based support that transcends party lines” to sustain the administration’s “Renewed Hope Agenda.”
According to the APC, ongoing developmental efforts under Tinubu justify a wider coalition of political actors and stakeholders ahead of 2027.
Similar trends have been observed in the South-West, where some PDP leaders have openly backed Tinubu’s re-election.
In Osun and Ogun states, PDP figures have previously declared support for the president, describing him as a “son of the soil.”
In Ekiti State, former governor Ayo Fayose has also publicly endorsed Tinubu, despite remaining a PDP member, and has extended support to APC Governor Biodun Oyebanji.