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The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, has reportedly endorsed former Rivers State Commissioner for Works, Alabo Dakorinama George Kelly, as his preferred candidate for the 2027 governorship election in Rivers State under the platform of the All Progressives Congress (APC).
Sources close to the matter said the decision followed a closed-door meeting held in Port Harcourt on Monday with key political stakeholders, where strategic alignments ahead of the upcoming general elections were reviewed.
George, a former commissioner and long-time political ally within the Wike camp, is expected to formally emerge as the APC governorship hopeful as political calculations intensify ahead of 2027.
According to insiders, the meeting was attended by senior figures, including former militant leaders Asari Dokubo and Ateke Tom, underscoring what sources described as “broad-based consultations” between influential blocs in the state.
A source privy to the discussions said Wike’s support for George was part of a larger strategy to consolidate his political structure and maintain influence in Rivers State despite his current federal appointment.
“After extensive discussions, George was considered the most suitable candidate to lead the structure until 2027,” the source said.
The development comes amid persistent political tension between Governor Siminalayi Fubara and his predecessor and political mentor, Wike, a rift that has continued to reshape the political landscape of the state.
Since assuming office, Fubara has gradually distanced himself from Wike’s political apparatus, leading to divisions within the Rivers State political establishment, including the House of Assembly and local government structures.
The crisis has triggered shifting alliances across party lines, with both camps reportedly working to secure dominance ahead of the next election cycle.
President Bola Tinubu’s efforts to reconcile both factions have yet to produce lasting peace, as political tensions remain high in the oil-rich state.
However, as of this writing, there has been no official confirmation from Wike’s camp or the APC on the reported endorsement.
The Rivers political scene is expected to witness intensified jockeying in the coming months as key players position themselves for the 2027 governorship contest.
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