Wike Rejects Fubara, Endorses Chinda As Rivers Governorship Candidate For 2027

In a dramatic twist that has sent shockwaves across Rivers State politics, the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Chief Nyesom Ezenwo Wike, has reportedly dumped his successor, Governor Siminalayi Fubara, and thrown his weight behind Hon. OK Chinda as the preferred candidate for the 2027 governorship election.

The development marks a significant escalation in the long-running rift between Wike and Fubara, who was once seen as the former governor’s political protégé. Sources close to the Wike camp indicate that the FCT Minister has grown increasingly disillusioned with Fubara’s leadership style and alleged disloyalty, leading to a decisive break in their once formidable alliance.

Hon. Kingsley Chinda, the Minority Leader in the House of Representatives and a staunch Wike loyalist from Obio/Akpor, is now being positioned as the anointed successor. Political observers describe Chinda as a trusted ally who shares Wike’s vision for the state and is seen as capable of protecting the interests of the Wike political structure. SenatorAbbo news

Deepening Rift

The frosty relationship between Wike and Fubara, which erupted into open crisis shortly after Fubara assumed office in 2023, has continued to worsen. Recent reports suggest Wike has openly hinted that he may not support Fubara’s second-term bid, describing any potential re-election as a possible “mistake” that the people of Rivers State should avoid.

Wike’s camp is said to be consulting widely and working towards building a broad coalition that will produce a consensus candidate capable of retaining power in 2027. While Wike has publicly maintained that he is yet to formally endorse any candidate except President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for a second term, insiders insist that quiet moves strongly favour OK Chinda.

What This Means for Rivers 2027

The endorsement, if confirmed, is expected to reshape the political landscape in Rivers State. It could trigger a major realignment of forces, with Wike’s formidable grassroots structure and financial muscle likely tilting the balance heavily in Chinda’s favour.

Governor Fubara has so far maintained a stoic silence amid the growing speculation, even as names of other potential contenders, including Marcus Eji, continue to circulate within political circles.

As the countdown to 2027 begins in earnest, stakeholders in Rivers State are watching closely to see how the power play between the two political heavyweights will unfold. Will Fubara fight back to secure a second term, or will Wike’s influence prove too strong to overcome?

The coming months promise to be intense as political permutations, ethnic considerations, and strategic alliances take centre stage in the race for Brick House.