The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, has reportedly chosen former Rivers State Commissioner for Works, Alabo Dakorinama George Kelly, as his preferred candidate for the state’s governorship race.
George is expected to run under the platform of the All Progressives Congress (APC) as preparations quietly begin ahead of the 2027 general elections.
The decision was said to have been reached on Monday after a private meeting in Port Harcourt involving key political figures. During the gathering, participants reviewed the current political situation in Rivers State and discussed plans for the next election cycle.
Among those present were former militant leaders, including Asari Dokubo and Ateke Tom. Their presence pointed to the level of consultation that took place before the reported endorsement.
George, who previously handled the Works ministry in the state, is seen as a loyal figure within Wike’s political circle. His selection is believed to be part of efforts to keep Wike’s influence strong in Rivers politics, even while serving at the federal level.
This development comes at a time when Rivers State is facing a long-running political dispute between Governor Siminalayi Fubara and Wike. Since taking office, Fubara has steadily moved away from Wike’s control, creating divisions across the state’s political structure.
The disagreement has affected the State House of Assembly and local government leadership, leading to ongoing clashes and shifting alliances as both sides struggle for control.
Attempts by President Bola Tinubu to settle the crisis have not fully resolved the issue, with tension still present in the state.
Sources familiar with the meeting told Daily Post that the decision to back George is aimed at shaping the political direction of Rivers State before the next election.
However, there has been no official statement confirming the endorsement at the time of filing this report.
