Rivers LG Polls: Wike loyalists dominate APC, PDP candidate lists

Political parties in Rivers State have concluded their primaries ahead of the August 30 local government elections, with candidates emerging across several local councils under the banners of both the All Progressives Congress (APC) and the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP).

Most of the successful aspirants are known allies of the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory and former Rivers State Governor, Nyesom Wike.

The primaries, which held across the state on Saturday following guidelines issued by the Rivers State Independent Electoral Commission (RSIEC), produced candidates through a mix of competitive voting and consensus arrangements.

In Ikwerre Local Government Area, Charles Wobodo emerged as the APC chairmanship candidate after securing 64 out of 65 votes in an electronic primary.

“By this, we declare that Charles Wobodo is the chairmanship candidate-elect for Ikwerre Local Government Area,” declared Daniel Michael, the returning officer.

Wobodo, in his acceptance speech, expressed gratitude to party members and stakeholders in Ikwerre, promising purposeful leadership if elected.

“You have shown that hard work pays. I will not betray the trust you have placed in me,” he assured, vowing to promote unity and progress in Ikwerre.

However, cracks emerged within the Rivers APC as the Chief Emeka Beke-led faction disowned the primaries, describing the emergence of some candidates as “unauthorised.”

Spokesperson Darrington Nwauju said the party has established procedures for primaries and does not recognise the endorsement of individuals whose names are not on the APC membership register.

READ ALSO: Ex-Borno Governor hails Wike’s performance amid criticism of non-performing ministers

“There’s no provision in our constitution for gifting out party flags or recognising unknown individuals as candidates,” he said.

Prominent Wike Allies Secure Tickets in Multiple LGAs

Our correspondent reports that several former local government chairmen during Wike’s gubernatorial tenure have secured nominations once again, reinforcing the FCT Minister’s influence over both major parties in the state.

Some of the notable candidates include: Dr. Chidi Lloyd – Emuoha LGA; Dr. Thomas Bariere – Khana LGA; Hon. Confidence Dekor – Gokana LGA; Mbakpone Okpe – Tai LGA; Akuro Tobin – Okrika LGA; Allwell Ihunda – Port Harcourt City LGA; Onengiyeofori George – Asari Toru LGA; Shedrack Chukwu – Ogba/Egbema/Ndoni LGA; Uchechukwu Obasi – Omuma LGA; Michael Williams – Degema LGA; Okechukwu Akara – Oyigbo LGA; Abinye Blessing Pepple – Bonny LGA; Vincent Nemioboka – Ogu/Bolo LGA; Hon. Chima Njoku – Etche LGA

Most of these candidates are staunch loyalists of Wike and served as chairmen in their respective councils during his administration as governor.

As of Sunday, candidates for approximately eight local government areas are yet to be confirmed, with party officials expected to conclude selection processes in the coming days.

The local government elections are scheduled for August 30, 2025, and are expected to be a major test of political strength between rival factions within the state’s dominant parties. Analysts say the dominance of Wike-backed candidates may shape the political landscape in Rivers for the foreseeable future.