No More Silence? Rivers Politicians Demand Wike Declare Who Succeeds Fubara in 2027
No More Silence? Rivers Politicians Demand Wike Declare Who Succeeds Fubara in 2027
As the countdown to the 2027 general elections intensifies, political stakeholders in Rivers State are increasingly turning their attention to former Governor and current Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, demanding clarity on who he will back as the next governor.
The calls come against the backdrop of a turbulent political landscape in the oil-rich state, marked by a prolonged power struggle between Wike and his successor, Governor Siminalayi Fubara. What began as disagreements over control of the state’s political structure has evolved into open declarations of intent to shape the succession narrative.
Wike, who remains a towering figure in Rivers politics despite serving in President Bola Tinubu’s cabinet, has repeatedly signaled his determination to avoid repeating what he describes as the “leadership mistake” of 2023. In public statements and during thank-you visits across local government areas, he has vowed to “correct” the error of installing Fubara, insisting that his political legacy would be “buried” if the current governor secures a second term.
“I won’t allow myself to be politically buried ahead of 2027,” Wike has asserted in various fora, emphasizing that he will only support a successor he can trust. He has dismissed suggestions that Fubara informed him of any re-election plans, stating bluntly that no such discussion has occurred and that the governor’s recent defection to the All Progressives Congress (APC) does not guarantee victory or automatic backing.
The pressure on Wike to declare his preferred candidate stems from his perceived grip on grassroots structures, local government leadership, and influence across both the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) — where he retains membership — and segments of the APC in the state. Supporters argue that Wike’s network remains formidable, capable of mobilizing without needing the sitting governor’s backing to deliver Rivers for Tinubu’s re-election bid in 2027.
“We don’t need a governor to mobilise for Mr. President,” Wike declared earlier this year, underscoring his confidence in independent structures built over years. He has warned that Rivers remains a “no-go area” for opposition forces and that the state will align fully with Tinubu, regardless of who occupies Government House.
As one political watcher Hon Ibiso Jaja put it: “The godfather’s dilemma is real — declare too early and risk rebellion; delay and lose momentum. But silence is no longer an option in Rivers politics.”
With Tinubu’s re-election ambitions tied to delivering key states like Rivers, all eyes remain on Wike to end the speculation and reveal the face he believes can carry the state’s political baton forward. Whether that revelation brings unity or further division remains to be seen.
