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Rivers Political Crisis 2027 Deepens Ahead of Governorship Race
The Rivers political crisis 2027 has taken a new turn as several governors from the All Progressives Congress have reportedly thrown their weight behind Governor Siminalayi Fubara’s re-election bid, dealing a setback to the political influence of former Rivers governor and current Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike.
Sources within the APC say tensions escalated after senior party figures and governors expressed support for Fubara’s second-term ambition. This move has reportedly angered Wike, who has publicly opposed any attempt by his successor to seek re-election in 2027.
APC Governors Rally Behind Fubara
Party insiders disclosed that backing from APC governors has strengthened Fubara’s position within the ruling party. The governor is said to have gained goodwill due to infrastructure projects and governance initiatives across Rivers State, which have drawn praise from influential party leaders.
The situation worsened following disagreements involving the APC Governors’ Forum chairman, Hope Uzodimma, after political moves linked to Wike reportedly bypassed him. This development allegedly triggered quiet mobilisation among governors to counter Wike’s influence by supporting Fubara.
War of Words Within the APC
The crisis has spilled into the open, with APC National Secretary Ajibola Basiru and Wike exchanging sharp statements over Rivers politics. Basiru has openly declared support for Fubara and urged party officials to avoid taking sides in the dispute.
Basiru also criticised comments suggesting that Fubara could not succeed politically without Wike’s backing, insisting that no individual holds exclusive political control over any part of Rivers State.
Wike Pushes Back as Crisis Grows
Wike, during public engagements in Rivers State, warned APC leaders to stay out of the state’s politics. He insisted that his influence remains dominant in parts of Rivers and questioned the authority of party officials interfering in local political affairs.
In response, Basiru maintained that Wike, who is not a member of the APC, lacks the authority to dictate the party’s direction. He defended his role as national secretary and dismissed allegations linking him to Rivers State funds.
Defection and 2027 Implications
The Rivers political crisis 2027 intensified after Fubara officially defected from the Peoples Democratic Party to the APC in December, alongside several lawmakers. The move reshaped the political landscape in the oil-rich state and positioned Fubara as the APC’s leading figure ahead of the next election.
Although earlier reports suggested an agreement barring Fubara from contesting in 2027, recent developments indicate that the deal may be unraveling. As both camps dig in, Rivers State appears set for a high-stakes political showdown in the lead-up to the 2027 general elections.
