The growing conversation around rainbow coalition politics should not be mistaken for an attack on any governor or party leader. Coalition politics is part of democratic competition, and political actors should not be blamed simply because they participate in a wider political arrangement.
The experience of Nyesom Wike in the 2023 Rivers State election also demonstrates how political alliances can cut across traditional party boundaries. There is nothing wrong with learning from political experience.
At its heart, a rainbow coalition gives people with different political affiliations the opportunity to converge around candidates they believe can serve their interests.
A political party provides a platform, but it does not own the conscience of the voter. No good leader can effectively represent the people without their consent, confidence and participation.
This is where the conversation around Hon. Mathew Oye Oyerinmade, popularly known as MATO, becomes significant in Ondo South.
His accessibility, human relations, intelligence and engagement with people across the six Local Government Areas has made his name part of the wider political discussion. His Senate ambition is on the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) platform, while he maintains support for President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, at the presidential level.
The lesson for political leaders is straightforward: imposing a candidate may secure a ticket, but it cannot automatically manufacture acceptance.
Where citizens believe another candidate better understands their needs and possesses the capacity to represent them, their political choice should be respected. The mandate belongs to the people, not to political godfathers, structures or party colours.
The emerging “Yoruba rónú” conversation similarly calls for reflection on heritage, identity and the long-term interest of the people. Yet, whatever political considerations citizens adopt, the final decision remains theirs. Party loyalty has its place, but it should not become a chain around the political judgement of the electorate.
There is therefore no need for unnecessary anxiety over rainbow coalition politics. Leaders who participate in such alliances should not be condemned for exercising their democratic rights, just as citizens should not be condemned for seeking candidates they consider accessible, capable and responsive. When the people speak through their franchise, responsible leadership listens.
As the Urhobo proverb says, “It is better to be born a thief than to be born a mumu.” In political language, the wisdom is simple: know when to follow, know when to negotiate, and know when the people’s voice must be heard.
©️ Mato Strategic Media Team