Fresh political intrigue is unfolding in Rivers State as Nyesom Wike is reportedly backing two loyal allies to contest the 2027 governorship election on separate political platforms, a move that signals a calculated strategy to maintain influence regardless of party outcomes.
According to emerging reports, Alabo Dakorinama George-Kelly has been tipped to run under the All Progressives Congress, while Kingsley Chinda, the Minority Leader of the House of Representatives, is being positioned to contest on the platform of the Peoples Democratic Party. Both individuals are said to be key members of the Rainbow Coalition, a political bloc closely aligned with Wike.
Sources familiar with the development revealed that the coalition leadership encouraged the duo to purchase nomination forms within their respective parties, effectively placing strong contenders in both APC and PDP camps ahead of the primaries. This dual positioning is widely interpreted as a strategic attempt to secure political control irrespective of which party emerges victorious in the state. ..READ THE FULL ARTICLE HERE .
The reported endorsement of George-Kelly, in particular, has generated excitement among some stakeholders in Rivers State. His entry into the race is said to have been met with jubilation, especially among youth groups and political actors who believe his candidacy resonates strongly across different segments of the state. Analysts note that his background and perceived loyalty to Wike may have contributed to his growing acceptance.
George-Kelly, a former governorship aspirant who came second in the 2022 PDP primary, is regarded as a long time political associate of Wike. His emergence aligns with sentiments in some quarters advocating for power rotation to the riverine Ijaw axis, adding another layer of political calculation to the unfolding scenario.
On the other hand, the inclusion of Kingsley Chinda in the PDP race has sparked mixed reactions. While he remains a prominent political figure, some stakeholders reportedly expressed reservations about his candidacy, suggesting that his name did not generate the same level of enthusiasm across the state.
Despite the growing speculation, there has been no official confirmation from Wike or the coalition regarding the final decision. However, insiders suggest that the minister is carefully assessing public sentiment and political dynamics before making a definitive move, reinforcing his reputation as a calculated and strategic political operator.
Observers believe the development reflects a broader trend in Nigerian politics where influence is often maintained through strategic placements across multiple platforms. By positioning allies in both major parties, Wike appears to be hedging his political bets while ensuring that his influence remains deeply embedded in the state’s power structure.
As the 2027 elections draw closer, the situation in Rivers State is expected to evolve further, with party primaries, alliances, and possible counter moves shaping what is already emerging as a high stakes political contest. For now, the reported positioning of George-Kelly and Chinda highlights the intensity of behind the scenes maneuvering and the growing significance of strategic alliances in Nigeria’s political landscape.
