2027 Elections: Rivers APC Leaders in Ahoada West Pledge to Follow Wike’s Political Direction
The leadership of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Ahoada West Local Government Area of Rivers State has openly declared its readiness to align with and follow the political instructions of the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, as preparations gradually build toward the 2027 general elections. The declaration was made on Sunday during what was described as a “thank you” visit by the minister to the local government area.
Speaking at the event, the APC Chairman in Ahoada West, Mr Rejoice Otobo, assured Wike of the loyalty and support of party members and residents of the area. According to Otobo, the people of Ahoada West remain appreciative of Wike’s past interventions and developmental contributions, and are prepared to stand with him politically in the coming election cycle.
“We are waiting for your instructions concerning the 2027 elections in Rivers State,” Otobo said. “Wherever you ask us to go, that is where we will go, and whatever you ask us to do is exactly what we will do.” He further added that the decision cut across political and social lines within the local government, noting that both supporters and critics had resolved to align with Wike’s political direction.
Otobo explained that the pledge of loyalty was rooted in what he described as Wike’s tangible impact on the area, stressing that the people would not abandon him after benefiting from his leadership and influence over the years.
A similar message of allegiance was delivered by the Chairman of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Ahoada West, Mr Ikechukwu Obuzor. Despite belonging to a different political party, Obuzor praised Wike for what he described as giving the people renewed hope and direction. He pledged that Ahoada West would stand firmly with the minister and support his political interests ahead of 2027.
“I want to assure you that we are standing solidly with you,” Obuzor said. “Wherever you go, we will go. Come 2027, Ahoada West will deliver the results you need.”
Earlier, the Chairman of Ahoada West Local Government Council, Mr Chita Eugene, described Wike as the “political field marshal of the South-South,” commending him for what he termed unprecedented development attracted to Rivers State during his time as governor. Eugene noted that the visit went beyond a routine courtesy call, describing it as a celebration of leadership, service, and political influence.
Also speaking, the member of the House of Representatives representing Ahoada West/Ogba-Egbema/Ndoni Federal Constituency, Mr Victor Obuzor, said Wike deserved continued support because of his record in office. According to him, Wike not only delivered projects to Ahoada West but also significantly transformed Rivers State during his tenure as governor.
Adding to the show of support, the Seyi Tinubu Support Group, led by Mr Chidi Amadi, publicly pledged loyalty to Wike while also declaring support for President Bola Tinubu’s re-election bid in 2027. The group described Wike as a strategic political ally whose influence would be critical to future electoral outcomes in the state.
In his remarks, Wike said his visit was meant to thank the people of Ahoada West for the overwhelming support he and President Tinubu received during the 2023 general elections. He lamented what he described as a decline in governance standards in Rivers State, arguing that the state had lost some of its political prestige due to leadership challenges.
The FCT minister was particularly critical of the current administration in the state, insisting that Governor Siminalayi Fubara should not be given a second term in office. According to Wike, restoring Rivers State’s political relevance and development trajectory would require correcting what he called a leadership mistake in 2027.
“Rivers State used to command respect nationally because of its stance on good governance,” Wike said. “We need a leader we can trust to move the state forward. The respect the state is beginning to enjoy again is linked to the work we are doing at the federal level, especially in the FCT.”
The public declarations of loyalty have since sparked widespread reactions across political circles and social media, with critics raising concerns about state capture, internal party democracy, and the growing influence of powerful political figures over local party structures. Supporters, however, argue that Wike’s influence is a reflection of his political capital and track record in office.
As the 2027 elections draw closer, the unfolding dynamics in Rivers State suggest that Wike will remain a central figure in shaping alliances, party strategies, and electoral outcomes, with Ahoada West emerging as one of the earliest platforms for open declarations of support.