Wike Signals New 2027 Successor

The political chessboard of Rivers State is being reset as the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, has publicly directed his loyalists to prepare for a new direction ahead of the 2027 governorship election. In a move that further deepens the chasm between him and the incumbent administration, Wike has instructed his supporters to remain vigilant and wait for his signal regarding an “anointed” candidate to take the state’s top job.

Speaking on Wednesday during a high-profile gathering in Ahoada East Local Government Area, the former governor addressed a diverse crowd of supporters from both the All Progressives Congress and the Peoples Democratic Party. His message was clear: the political machinery that once installed the current leadership is now being redirected toward a new, yet-to-be-named successor.

Wike’s rhetoric in Ahoada East was vintage political strategy, emphasizing a “follow the leader” approach to grassroots mobilization. He told the gathered crowd to keep a close eye on the movements of key local power brokers, specifically the local government council chairmen and the party chairmen of both the APC and PDP who remain within his ideological orbit.

The Minister’s instructions were remarkably specific regarding how his followers should identify his preferred choice. He noted that wherever these key leaders are directed to move, that location marks the destination for his entire political family. This directive effectively turns the local party structures into a compass for Wike’s supporters, ensuring that his influence remains cohesive even as he operates from the federal capital.

Central to this new political alignment is Wike’s vow to ensure that his estranged political godson, Governor Siminalayi Fubara, does not secure a second term. The rift between the two men, which has dominated Rivers State politics for over a year, has now officially transitioned into a long-term electoral strategy aimed at 2027. Wike’s latest comments confirm that the bridges between the two camps have been effectively dismantled.

Beyond the local governorship race, Wike also used the platform to reinforce his commitment to the center. He made a passionate appeal to his supporters to back the re-election bid of President Bola Tinubu. This dual-layered strategy—supporting the APC at the federal level while maintaining a complex grip on both major parties at the state level—continues to make Wike a unique and formidable force in Nigerian politics.

The Minister’s influence in Rivers remains a subject of intense debate, especially given the “emergency rule” controversies and the shifting loyalties of state lawmakers. By telling supporters to “watch the movement” of his lieutenants, Wike is signaling that the era of open declaration is not yet here, but the groundwork for a successor is being laid in the shadows of local government administration.

For the people of Rivers State, this announcement suggests that the next two years will be defined by intense political maneuvering. With Wike commanding his supporters to look toward his “anointed” one, the state is bracing for a triangular contest between the incumbent’s camp, Wike’s chosen successor, and any independent third-party interests that may emerge.

The gathering in Ahoada East serves as a reminder that despite his federal duties in Abuja, Wike’s heart and political muscle remain firmly rooted in the creeks and streets of Rivers. His ability to command loyalty across party lines suggests that the 2027 governorship race will be less about party manifestos and more about the personal influence of the man who still considers himself the “Dean” of Rivers politics.

As the political cycle begins to turn, the question remains: who is the candidate hidden behind Wike’s curtain? For now, the Minister is keeping his cards close to his chest, telling his followers only to watch the signs. But in the high-stakes game of Rivers power, a sign from Wike is often treated by his supporters as a command.