Supporters of the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, have successfully clinched the All Progressives Congress (APC) tickets for the upcoming Rivers State House of Assembly bye-elections set for February 21, 2026. The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) will conduct the elections to fill two vacant seats in Ahoada-East Constituency II and Khana Constituency II.
The vacancies arose after Hon. Dunebari Loolo of Khana Constituency II passed away and Hon. Edison Ehie of Ahoada-East resigned amid political turmoil. Ahead of the primaries, the APC held congresses to elect five delegates from each constituency, supervised by the party’s National Working Committee, INEC, and security agencies.
On the day of the primaries, Hon. Napoleon Ukalikpe, a loyalist of Minister Wike, was nominated for Ahoada-East Constituency II, while Mrs. Bulabari Loolo, wife of the late Khana representative, was selected for Khana Constituency II as a form of settlement following her husband’s demise. Sources indicate that these developments have caused confusion within Governor Sir Siminalayi Fubara’s camp, with some suggesting the governor’s loyalists were sidelined, while others say Minister Wike’s allies outmaneuvered the state leadership.
As the bye-elections approach, the political tension in Rivers State highlights the continuing influence of Minister Wike in shaping local politics and the delicate balance of power within the APC. These contests will be closely watched as a test of political strategy and loyalty ahead of the 2027 elections.
