Former Rivers State Commissioner for Works, Alabo Dakorinama George Kelly, has reportedly secured the backing of the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, as his preferred candidate for the Rivers State governorship.
George is expected to contest under the platform of the All Progressives Congress signalling a significant political development ahead of the 2027 general elections.
Sources indicated that Wike settled for George after a closed-door meeting with key political stakeholders in Port Harcourt on Monday, according to Daily Champion.
The meeting was said to have focused on the political landscape in the state and strategies to consolidate influence ahead of the next election cycle.
Among those present were former militant leaders Asari Dokubo and Ateke Tom, highlighting the level of consultations preceding the endorsement.
George, regarded as an experienced political figure, previously served as Commissioner for Works and is seen as a loyal ally within Wike’s political network.
A source at the meeting said the move forms part of efforts to sustain Wike’s political influence in Rivers State despite his current federal appointment.
The development comes amid a prolonged political crisis in the state, driven by a fierce power struggle between Governor Siminalayi Fubara and his former political benefactor, Nyesom Wike.
Since taking office, Fubara has gradually distanced himself from Wike, resulting in divisions across the state’s political structure, including the State House of Assembly and local government leadership.
The rift has led to a series of political confrontations, shifting alliances, and intense competition for control of party structures and governance in the state.
Attempts by President Bola Tinubu to mediate between both camps have yielded limited progress, with tensions continuing to linger.
According to the source, “Wike’s endorsement of George is a strategic move to reassert control and shape the political future of Rivers State ahead of 2027,” he said.
As of the time of filing this report, there has been no official confirmation of the endorsement.
