Wike Tightens Grip on Rivers, Delivers PDP Structures to Tinubu Ahead of 2027

The recently concluded local government elections in Rivers State have deepened political tensions, with the outcome seen by many as a decisive shift of power from Governor Siminalayi Fubara to Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, and by extension, President Bola Tinubu.

Despite widespread opposition from stakeholders who argued the polls violated constitutional provisions and undermined democracy, the Rivers State Independent Electoral Commission pressed ahead with the exercise. The results delivered a sweeping victory to the All Progressives Congress, which won 20 local government areas, leaving the ruling Peoples Democratic Party with just three. It was the first time since 1999 that the APC had emerged dominant in Rivers politics.

The swearing-in of the new council chairmen took place at the Government House under the supervision of Vice Admiral Ibok Ibas (rtd), the state’s sole administrator. Observers, however, described the elections as fraudulent, pointing to reported boycotts, inflated voter figures surpassing those of the 2023 presidential election, and widespread irregularities.

Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar dismissed the polls as a travesty of democracy, accusing the Tinubu administration of using the process to consolidate power. Civil society groups, including TAF Africa, echoed similar concerns, branding the elections unconstitutional and tailored to secure control ahead of 2027.

Governor Fubara and his loyalists were conspicuously absent during the exercise, fueling speculation that he had lost grip on state structures. Analysts argue that the outcome reflects the terms of a reconciliation deal brokered between Wike and Fubara in 2025, which effectively stripped the governor of influence.

Political commentators say the results mark Wike’s full takeover of Rivers’ political machinery, with both APC and PDP factions now aligned under his influence. Many believe the development ensures a smoother path for Tinubu in 2027, with Wike expected to sabotage the PDP from within while strengthening the APC’s hold on the state.

Critics warn the process has further eroded confidence in Nigeria’s electoral system and may deepen voter apathy in future elections. While aggrieved parties have been directed to seek redress in court, skepticism remains about whether the judiciary will act independently.

Wike, meanwhile, has defended the polls as legally conducted and dismissed criticisms from Atiku and Peter Obi. He expressed confidence that the results would withstand judicial scrutiny, reinforcing the perception that Rivers’ political structures are now firmly in his hands.