Rivers APC Declares Wike Backed Primaries Invalid, Throws Candidates Into Uncertainty

A fresh crisis has hit the Rivers State chapter of the All Progressives Congress (APC) after the reinstated executive led by Chief Emeka Beke declared all primaries and nominations conducted by the rival Tony Okocha faction null and void.

The move places the candidacy of several party nominees, including APC governorship candidate Hon. Kingsley Chinda, under uncertainty.

The Beke faction argued that recent court judgments which nullified the Okocha led executive automatically invalidate all congresses, primaries and nominations conducted under its authority.

The development is the latest twist in the prolonged leadership battle within the Rivers APC, a conflict widely seen as linked to the political influence of FCT Minister Nyesom Wike.

Political observers say the dispute could trigger fresh legal battles, force new primaries, and reshape political alignments ahead of the 2027 elections.

With Rivers remaining one of Nigeria’s most strategic political battlegrounds, the outcome of the APC leadership tussle could have major implications for the state’s political future.