The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, has reportedly endorsed former Rivers State Commissioner for Works, Alabo Dakorinama George Kelly, as his preferred candidate for the state’s governorship.

George is expected to run under the platform of the All Progressives Congress (APC), marking a significant political development ahead of the 2027 general elections.

According to sources, the decision followed a closed-door meeting held in Port Harcourt on Monday, where Wike met with key political stakeholders to assess the state’s political landscape and map out strategies for strengthening influence before the next election cycle.

The meeting reportedly included notable ex-militant leaders such as Asari Dokubo and Ateke Tom, highlighting the level of consultation that preceded the endorsement.

George, regarded as a loyal ally within Wike’s political camp, previously served as Commissioner for Works and remains a prominent figure in Rivers State politics. Sources suggest the move is part of a broader strategy to sustain Wike’s political dominance in the state despite his current federal role.

The development comes amid an ongoing political crisis in Rivers State, fueled by a prolonged rift between Governor Siminalayi Fubara and his former political ally, Wike. Since taking office, Fubara has increasingly distanced himself from Wike’s influence, leading to deep divisions across the state’s political structure, including the House of Assembly and local government system.

The power struggle has sparked a series of confrontations and shifting alliances, as both factions continue to battle for control of party structures and governance in the state.

Efforts by President Bola Tinubu to mediate the crisis have so far made little progress, with tensions still running high.

As of the time of filing this report, there has been no official confirmation regarding Wike’s endorsement, although insiders describe it as a calculated move to shape the political future of Rivers State ahead of 2027.