Imo political tension deepens as Okorocha throws weight behind Wike’s Rainbow Coalition, fires at Uzodimma

Former Imo State Governor Rochas Okorocha has thrown his weight behind the Rainbow Coalition championed by Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, hours after securing a Federal High Court victory in the dispute over the All Progressives Congress (APC) senatorial ticket for Imo West.

Okorocha reportedly declared his support for the coalition after the court recognised him as the authentic APC candidate for the Imo West Senatorial District, in a political dispute involving Governor Hope Uzodimma.

His declaration comes amid a growing disagreement between Uzodimma and Wike over the coalition, with the Imo governor reportedly insisting that the political platform would not gain recognition in the state.

Speaking on Arise News, Okorocha praised Wike and other promoters of the coalition, arguing that political cooperation should transcend party affiliations and focus on supporting individuals capable of delivering good governance.

“That’s what it’s called, governance. I’ve seen somebody who can do well, even though it’s not from my party. Let’s give them support,” he said.

The former governor also advocated cross-party collaboration to achieve common political objectives, including securing President Bola Tinubu’s re-election.

“We’re going to bring PDP, all of them to support Tinubu to win. Some people will step down. Some people are sure. Some people will step down their position. Just make sure we achieve one common goal,” he said.

Okorocha also took a swipe at Uzodimma’s political standing, questioning the governor’s level of grassroots support in Imo State and the South-East.

“Hope cannot carry Imo. Cannot carry South East,” he declared, challenging the governor to test his popularity among residents of the state.

He further dismissed suggestions that his political influence was sustained by financial inducements, insisting that his relationship with supporters was built on genuine affection.

“So, it’s about love. It’s about genuine love of the people. It’s not about understanding,” Okorocha said.

His declaration introduces another dimension to the political contest in Imo State, where the dispute over the APC’s Imo West senatorial ticket is unfolding alongside the disagreement over Wike’s Rainbow Coalition and broader political realignments ahead of the 2027 general elections.