Political tensions in Rivers State have escalated sharply following the conclusion of the All Progressives Congress screening exercise for aspirants seeking to contest seats in the State House of Assembly. The outcome of the exercise has intensified the already strained relationship between the camp of the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, and that of Governor Siminalayi Fubara, further widening divisions within the state’s political structure.
The screening committee released its findings after completing its assessment of aspirants between May 9 and May 10, 2026. The report, which has since sparked widespread political debate, shows a clear advantage for individuals aligned with Wike while significantly weakening the presence of those believed to be loyal to Governor Fubara.
According to the committee’s findings, a total of 98 aspirants were screened for eligibility to participate in the upcoming party primaries. Out of this number, 33 individuals were cleared to proceed, while 65 aspirants were not approved to continue in the process. The outcome has been described by political observers as heavily one sided, particularly because all 29 incumbent lawmakers who recently defected to the APC and are associated with Wike were successfully cleared.
This development has been interpreted by many analysts as a consolidation of influence by the FCT Minister within the Rivers State chapter of the APC. It also raises questions about the balance of power within the party as it prepares for future elections.
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Strong Presence of Wike Loyalists
One of the most notable features of the screening outcome is the strong showing of individuals identified as loyal to Nyesom Wike. The so called “Wike group” appears to have maintained a solid grip on the party’s structure within the state assembly race.
All 29 serving lawmakers who defected to the APC and are widely believed to be politically aligned with Wike were cleared without issue. Their approval has been seen as a significant boost to the former governor’s political network, which continues to play a major role in Rivers State politics despite his current federal appointment.
For supporters of Wike, the screening results represent a validation of their influence within the APC structure. It also positions them strongly ahead of the party’s primary elections, where internal competition is expected to be intense.
Heavy Setback for Fubara’s Camp
In contrast, the screening exercise delivered a major setback to aspirants believed to be aligned with Governor Siminalayi Fubara. A large number of individuals associated with his political base were disqualified from continuing in the race, effectively limiting their participation in the upcoming primaries.
Among those affected are several prominent figures within the governor’s political network. Chijioke Ihunwo, who serves as the caretaker committee chairman of Obio Akpor local government area and is considered a key ally of the governor, was among those not cleared.
Also affected was Victor Oko Jumbo, who is regarded as a factional speaker within the Rivers State House of Assembly and is widely known for his support of Governor Fubara. Another notable name on the list of disqualified aspirants is Sokari Goodboy, who has been described as part of the governor’s close political circle.
In addition, individuals linked to former APC governorship candidate Tonye Cole also failed to secure clearance, further complicating the political dynamics within the party.
The committee explained that the disqualifications were based on failure to meet the required standards of the screening process. However, the scale and pattern of the exclusions have led to speculation that deeper political considerations may have influenced the outcome.
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Questions Over Screening Process
The release of the screening report has not been without controversy. Shortly after the list became public, the Secretary of the screening committee, Honorable Tanko Yamowa, publicly distanced himself from the document.
Yamowa described the circulated report as unauthorized and insisted that no official approval had been given for its release. His statement has introduced confusion into the situation, particularly because the document in circulation reportedly contains the signatures of key committee members, including the chairman and the secretary.
This contradiction has fueled further debate within political circles, with some questioning whether internal disagreements may have influenced the handling of the screening process. Others believe the dispute reflects deeper divisions within the party structure itself.
Fubara’s Unexpected Political Moves
Adding another layer of intrigue to the unfolding situation is the recent appearance of Governor Siminalayi Fubara at an APC screening venue in Abuja. The governor’s brief presence at the event caught many observers by surprise, especially given the ongoing tensions within the party in Rivers State.
Reports indicate that the governor arrived at the venue but left shortly afterward without addressing journalists or making any public comments. His sudden departure has led to widespread speculation about his intentions and possible political strategies ahead of the 2027 election cycle.
Some political analysts suggest that the governor’s appearance may have been an attempt to engage in behind the scenes discussions regarding the future of his political allies within the APC structure. Others believe it could signal internal disagreements or uncertainty regarding his political alignment.
There are also growing rumours that discussions are underway about potential leadership changes in the state ahead of the next governorship election. While no official confirmation has been made, such speculation has added to the already tense political environment.
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Growing Power Struggle in Rivers Politics
The latest developments highlight the ongoing power struggle between two major political figures in Rivers State. On one side is Nyesom Wike, whose influence within the APC appears to remain strong despite his federal appointment. On the other side is Governor Fubara, who is attempting to maintain control over his political base while navigating internal party challenges.
The outcome of the screening exercise has further tilted the balance of influence in favour of Wike’s camp, at least within the context of the APC House of Assembly structure. This shift could have significant implications for legislative control and party cohesion in the state.
With the APC primaries approaching, attention is now focused on how the disqualified aspirants and their supporters will respond to the screening results. There is also growing curiosity about whether the party leadership will intervene to address concerns raised about the process.
Uncertain Political Future Ahead
As Rivers State moves closer to the next phase of its political cycle, uncertainty continues to surround the future of its key political actors. The screening outcome has intensified existing divisions and raised questions about unity within the APC.
For Governor Fubara, the disqualification of several of his allies presents a major political challenge that could affect his influence within the party structure. For Nyesom Wike, the results appear to reinforce his dominance within the state’s political landscape.
However, with conflicting statements emerging from within the screening committee and ongoing speculation about political negotiations, the situation remains fluid. Observers expect further developments in the coming days as both camps respond to the unfolding events.
For now, Rivers State remains at the center of a deepening political contest, with the balance of power still evolving and the outcome of future elections far from certain.
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