Rivers State politics has taken a new direction as the FCT Minister, Nyesom Wike, reportedly wants former Commissioner Alabo George Kelly to become governor in 2027.
This came at a time when there is tension between Wike and the current governor, Siminalayi Fubara.
Alleged Kelly’s endorsement followed a private meeting in Port Harcourt on Monday, where politicians gathered to discuss strategies ahead of the next elections.
The meeting, sources claimed, included notable personalities such as former militant leaders Asari Dokubo and Ateke Tom, signalling that Wike’s camp is consulting widely before making major decisions.
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Kelly, according to reports, has been described as a loyal supporter of Wike and someone seen as capable of carrying his political vision forward in the state.
Sources also revealed that Kelly may run under the All Progressives Congress, even as this has not been officially confirmed.
Wike’s reported move has been seen by observers as part of a strategy to retain influence in Rivers State, even while holding a federal position.
Reports maintained that the situation in Rivers has been tense since Fubara became governor.
Also, there are claims that attempts by President Bola Tinubu to reconcile the two sides have so far not succeeded, leaving the state politically divided.
This situation is not unusual in Rivers politics, where alliances and endorsements can have impacts on election outcomes.
The reported backing of Kelly apparently reveals an effort by Wike’s camp to secure its role in the next elections.
Wike has not made any public statement confirming the endorsement.
More developments are likely to come in the next months as preparations for 2027 continue.
