A fresh wave of political intrigue has swept through Rivers State following a bold and unexpected move by former governor and current FCT Minister, Nyesom Wike, who has reportedly endorsed governorship candidates in both the APC and PDP for the 2027 elections.
Insiders familiar with the development reveal that Wike is backing Dr. Dax George Kelly as the preferred candidate of the All Progressives Congress (APC), while also throwing his support behind Rep. Kingsley O. K. Chinda for the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) ticket.
The dual endorsement has sparked widespread reactions across political circles, with many describing it as a calculated and unconventional strategy. Observers say the move highlights Wike’s enduring grip on Rivers politics and reflects a broader plan to sustain influence across party lines through what has been described as a “Rainbow Coalition.”
Dr. Kelly, who previously served as Commissioner for Works during Wike’s administration and now heads the Border Communities Development Agency, is widely regarded as a technocrat with deep ties to the former governor.
His emergence as a leading APC figure is expected to consolidate support among key blocs loyal to Wike.
On the PDP side, Chinda, currently the Minority Leader in the House of Representatives and a prominent ally of the former governor, has long been seen as a strong contender.
His endorsement further strengthens his standing within the party’s internal structure, particularly among factions aligned with Wike.
The development comes at a time of shifting alliances and growing political tension as the 2027 elections draw closer.
Analysts believe the move could significantly alter the dynamics of the governorship race, compelling other aspirants to rethink their strategies or seek new political partnerships.
Attention is now turning to the camp of incumbent governor, Siminalayi Fubara, as well as other influential stakeholders, to gauge their response to this unfolding scenario.
With reactions continuing to emerge, the implications of Wike’s latest political play are expected to dominate discussions in the days ahead.
