Nigeria’s Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, has declared that he will determine who succeeds the current administration as governor of Rivers State in the 2027 elections.
Speaking during a recent engagement, Wike asserted his continued dominance in the state’s political affairs, stating unequivocally that the choice of the next governor would rest with him.
“I will decide who becomes the governor of Rivers State,” he said, adding that no form of pressure or “blackmail” would influence the outcome.
The remarks come amid rising political tensions in the oil-rich state, following a rift between Wike and his successor, Siminalayi Fubara. The fallout has triggered realignments within the state’s political structure, particularly within the People’s Democratic Party (PDP).
Wike, who governed Rivers State from 2015 to 2023, has in recent months intensified political consultations, touring local government areas and rallying support among loyalists.
Political analysts say the minister’s comments signal an attempt to consolidate control over the PDP machinery in Rivers State and shape the party’s candidate selection process ahead of the 2027 governorship race. They note that his repeated warnings against what he calls past “political mistakes” reflect a determination to ensure that only a trusted ally emerges as the party’s flag bearer.
