2027: Wike Tightens Grip on Rivers Politics, Hands PDP Structures to Tinubu Through Controversial LG Polls
Story written by springnewsng September 8,2025
The recently concluded Local Government Elections in Rivers State have sparked intense controversy, with many Nigerians, civil society groups, and political stakeholders describing the process as unconstitutional and a calculated move to hand the state’s political structures to the All Progressives Congress (APC) and President Bola Ahmed Tinubu ahead of the 2027 general elections.
Despite widespread opposition, the Rivers State Independent Electoral Commission (RSIEC) proceeded with the exercise, disregarding constitutional provisions such as the mandatory notice period outlined in the Electoral Act.
At the end of the polls, the APC emerged victorious in 20 local government areas, while the ruling Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) managed to secure just three LGAs. This marks the first time the APC has gained dominance in Rivers State since the return of democracy in 1999.
The swearing-in of the 23 council chairmen took place at the Government House in Port Harcourt, with Vice Admiral Ibok Ibas (rtd), the sole administrator of Rivers State, presiding over the ceremony after RSIEC issued certificates of return to the declared winners.
Notable APC winners included Ofori Owolabi (Abua/Odual), Solomon Achoma (Ahoada East), Eugene Cheta (Ahoada West), and Dr. Gift Wodo (Obio/Akpor), among others. The PDP secured chairmanship seats only in Ogba/Egbema/Ndoni, Ogu/Bolo, and Port Harcourt LGAs.
Observers have raised questions about the credibility of the polls, citing reports of a statewide boycott, yet results claimed over two million votes, five times higher than those recorded during the 2023 presidential election in the state.
Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar described the exercise as “a travesty of democracy,” while rights activist Jake Epelle of TAF Africa condemned it as a “democratic scam” staged with the 2027 elections in mind.
Governor Siminalayi Fubara and his allies, including senior cabinet members, were notably absent during the elections, further fueling speculations of a political deal. Sources close to the governor confirmed that power has effectively shifted away from him following his reconciliation agreement with FCT Minister Nyesom Wike, brokered by President Tinubu.
Political analysts argue that Wike has successfully seized control of the Rivers PDP and handed it to the APC machinery ahead of 2027. Commentators like Reuben Abati and Rufai Oseni of Arise TV described Fubara’s concessions as “unconditional surrender,” leaving him politically weakened.
Critics also warned that the elections, marred by irregularities and alleged ballot-stuffing, could deepen voter apathy nationwide and further erode public trust in Nigeria’s democratic institutions.
Despite mounting criticism, Wike has defended the elections, insisting they were free, fair, and legally conducted. He dismissed opposition figures such as Peter Obi and Atiku Abubakar, stressing that no court has nullified the outcome.
Analysts believe Wike’s latest political manoeuvre cements his control over Rivers politics while aligning with Tinubu’s broader 2027 strategy. However, concerns remain that the process undermines democracy and sets a dangerous precedent for future elections.
