Wike Endorses Chinda As Next Rivers Governor

Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, has endorsed the All Progressives Congress (APC) governorship candidate in Rivers State, Kingsley Chinda, describing him as the person who will succeed Governor Siminalayi Fubara in 2027.

Wike made the declaration on Tuesday during a reception organised in his honour by Ogbakor Ikwerre, the socio-cultural organisation representing the Ikwerre ethnic nationality, at Obiri-Ehie.

While acknowledging dignitaries at the event, the former Rivers State governor introduced Chinda, a serving member of the House of Representatives and former Minority Leader, as the state’s next governor.

Wike described Chinda as a longtime political associate and expressed confidence in his ability to lead the state if elected during the 2027 governorship election.

The endorsement is expected to further reinforce speculation about Wike’s influence over the APC governorship ticket in Rivers State as political activities gradually intensify ahead of the 2027 elections.

Chinda emerged as the APC governorship candidate after winning the party’s primary election in May 2026. He is seeking to succeed Fubara, who has indicated that he will not pursue a second term in office.

The APC has also selected Major Jack, the Majority Leader of the Rivers State House of Assembly, as Chinda’s running mate for the 2027 election.

The choice of Jack was reportedly influenced by considerations of geographical balance and the need to strengthen the party’s support across different parts of the state, particularly in riverine communities.

Jack joined the APC in December 2025 alongside Rivers State House of Assembly Speaker Martin Amaewhule and several other lawmakers.

With Wike’s latest endorsement, attention is expected to shift further towards the emerging political contest in Rivers State as the major parties prepare for the 2027 governorship election.