Rivers State Governor, Siminalayi Fubara, has been officially cleared by the All Progressives Congress to participate in the party’s governorship primary scheduled for May 21, setting the stage for what could become a major political showdown ahead of the 2027 elections.

The clearance was granted on Saturday after Fubara appeared before the APC screening committee at the Plateau Governors’ Lodge in Abuja, where his credentials and eligibility were assessed alongside other aspirants.

According to reports, the Rivers governor was among 17 serving governors screened by the committee as part of preparations for the party’s upcoming primaries.

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The development comes amid heightened political tension and growing speculation surrounding the future power structure in Rivers State.

Attention has particularly focused on the role of the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, whose influence in Rivers politics continues to dominate conversations ahead of the governorship contest.

Speaking during his monthly media briefing in Abuja earlier in the week, Wike dismissed claims that he had already endorsed a preferred candidate for the 2027 governorship race.

According to the former Rivers governor, no official endorsement would be made until the state-level joint coalition convenes to deliberate on the matter.

Wike stated clearly that he had not thrown his support behind any aspirant at the moment, despite widespread political speculation suggesting otherwise.

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Although Wike publicly denied endorsing anyone, political discussions within Rivers State have continued to link him with former Rivers State Commissioner for Works, Alabo Dakorinama George-Kelly.

Reports suggest that George-Kelly may have emerged as a preferred choice following a closed-door meeting involving key political stakeholders in Port Harcourt earlier in the week.

While no formal confirmation has been issued regarding the alleged endorsement, analysts believe the APC governorship primary could become a critical test of political strength between competing blocs within the state.

Fubara’s participation in the APC primary is also expected to attract national attention due to the ongoing political realignments in Rivers and the evolving relationships among key political actors in the state.

Observers note that the outcome of the primary election may significantly shape the political direction of Rivers State and influence broader coalition dynamics ahead of the 2027 general elections.

With the APC governorship primary approaching, political stakeholders are expected to intensify consultations, alliances, and strategic positioning as the race for control of Rivers State enters a decisive phase.