Wike backs Alabo George for 2027 Rivers governorship

Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Mr Nyesom Wike, has reportedly endorsed Mr Alabo Dakorinama George Kelly as his preferred candidate for the Rivers State governorship. George, a former commissioner for works, is expected to contest under the platform of the All Progressives Congress (APC), in what is shaping up to be a key political development ahead of the 2027 general elections.

Sources said the decision followed a high-level, closed-door meeting in Port Harcourt on Monday. The session brought together influential stakeholders to evaluate the state’s political landscape and strategise on maintaining control as the next election cycle approaches.

The meeting was attended by prominent ex-militant leaders, including Asari Dokubo and Ateke Tom, underscoring the weight of consultations leading up to the endorsement, Daily Post reported.

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George, widely seen as a loyalist within Wike’s political camp, previously served as commissioner for works and remains a significant figure in the state’s political structure. According to sources, the move is part of a broader effort by Wike to retain political dominance in Rivers State despite his current role at the federal level.

The endorsement comes against the backdrop of a prolonged political crisis in the state, driven by a power struggle between Governor Siminalayi Fubara and his estranged political benefactor, Wike. Since assuming office, Fubara has steadily distanced himself from Wike’s influence, leading to divisions across the State House of Assembly and the local government system.

The rift has triggered ongoing political realignments, with both factions battling for control of party structures and governance in the state. Efforts by President Bola Tinubu to mediate the crisis have so far delivered limited progress, as tensions persist.

A source familiar with the development described Wike’s backing of George as a calculated move to reassert influence and shape Rivers State’s political future ahead of 2027. As of press time, however, there was no official confirmation of the endorsement.