Wike Tightens Grip as Loyalists Emerge APC–PDP Candidates for Rivers LG Polls

ByEditor

Aug 4, 2025 #APC–PDP Candidates, #Governor Siminalayi Fubara, #Nyesom Wike, #Rivers APC–PDP Alliance, #Rivers Political Crisis

Matilda Omonaiye/

The power struggle in Rivers State has taken a new turn as the All Progressives Congress (APC) and the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) have joined forces to present joint candidates for the upcoming local government elections, picking mostly loyalists of former governor and current FCT Minister, Nyesom Wike.

The decision to work together affects all 23 local government areas in the state and comes just weeks before the August 30 polls.

It is widely seen as a bold move by Wike to tighten his hold on power in the state, despite his public rift with suspended Governor Siminalayi Fubara.

Those chosen as consensus candidates are known Wike supporters, including Chidi Lloyd for Emohua (PDP), Onengiyeofori George for Asari-Toru (APC), Charles Wobodo for Ikwerre (APC), Thomas Bariere Ariar for Khana (APC), Michael Williams for Degema (APC), and Allwell Ihunda for Port Harcourt (PDP). Many of them have served under Wike in the past or are close allies.

The arrangement has caused outrage within both parties. Some party members say it is unfair and undemocratic, accusing Wike of using the system to favour his loyalists.

A faction of the APC led by Emeka Bekee has rejected the selection process, saying it was illegal and had no backing under the law. APC spokesman Darlington Nwauju described it as “a mockery of democracy” and “an abuse of state resources.”

But those close to Wike have defended the decision. George Ariolu, a former chairman of Obio/Akpor and Wike loyalist, said the consensus was made to avoid unnecessary fights and keep the peace. He said both parties are like one family under Wike’s leadership and credited him for building what he called a “bridge of political understanding.”

He also linked the move to Wike’s relationship with President Bola Tinubu, saying their partnership at the national level was being reflected in Rivers State.

However, civil society groups have raised concerns.

The Civil Liberties Organisation in Rivers has strongly condemned the process, warning that it is a dangerous attempt to turn the state into a one-man political empire. The group promised to challenge the arrangement through legal and democratic means.