Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, has endorsed former Rivers State Commissioner for Works, Alabo Dakorinama George Kelly, as his preferred candidate for the state’s governorship ahead of the 2027 general elections.
George is expected to contest under the platform of the All Progressives Congress, signalling a significant political shift in the state’s evolving landscape.
According to sources, the decision followed a closed door meeting held in Port Harcourt on Monday, where Wike met with key political stakeholders to assess the situation in Rivers State and strategise for the next election cycle.
The meeting was reportedly attended by prominent figures, including former militant leaders Asari Dokubo and Ateke Tom, highlighting the level of consultation preceding the endorsement.
George, who previously served as Commissioner for Works, is regarded as a loyal ally within Wike’s political circle and is seen as a strategic choice to sustain influence in the state.
The development comes amid a prolonged political rift between Rivers State Governor Siminalayi Fubara and Wike, his former political mentor. Since assuming office, Fubara has distanced himself from Wike’s camp, resulting in deep divisions within the state’s political structure.
The ongoing dispute has led to a series of political confrontations and realignments, affecting the State House of Assembly and local government administration.
Efforts by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to mediate between the factions have yielded limited progress, with tensions still unresolved.
A source familiar with the meeting described the endorsement as a calculated move.
“Wike’s endorsement of George is a strategic move to reassert control and shape the political future of Rivers State ahead of 2027,” the source said.
As of the time of filing this report, there has been no official confirmation of the endorsement.
