2027: Wike Settles on Alabo George as Rivers Governorship Pick

The 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.

George is expected to run under the platform of the All Progressives Congress (APC), marking an early alignment ahead of the 2027 general elections.

Sources familiar with the development said the decision followed a closed-door meeting held in Port Harcourt on Monday. The meeting reportedly brought together key political figures to assess the state’s political climate and plan for the next election cycle.

Among those present were former militant leaders, including Asari Dokubo and Ateke Tom, indicating the scale of consultations preceding the endorsement.

George, who previously served in the state cabinet, is regarded as a long-standing ally of Wike. His emergence is seen by insiders as part of a broader effort to sustain Wike’s political influence in Rivers State despite his current federal appointment.

The move comes amid an ongoing political dispute between Governor Siminalayi Fubara and Wike. Since taking office, Fubara has distanced himself from his predecessor, triggering divisions across the state’s political institutions, including the legislature and local government system.

The rift has led to shifting alliances and intensified competition for control of party structures within the state.

Attempts by President Bola Tinubu to mediate between both sides have yet to produce a lasting resolution.

As of the time of filing this report, there has been no official confirmation of the endorsement from Wike or George.