Political circles in Rivers State and across Nigeria are abuzz with fresh speculation linking the family of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Minister, Nyesom Wike, to the 2027 general elections.
Rumours of a Dynastic Move in Obio-Akpor
Emerging online reports suggest that Joaquin Wike, the 25-year-old son of the minister, is being positioned to contest for the Obio-Akpor Federal Constituency seat in the House of Representatives. The speculation, which gained traction on Monday, January 5, 2026, indicates he may aim to succeed the current representative, Kingsley Chinda.
According to social media posts, including one by influencer Bolanle Cole, consultations are allegedly ongoing. The narrative claims that Minister Wike has been introducing his son to political associates and friends, laying the groundwork for a potential run. The rumours highlight the young age of the minister's son, who would be contesting for a federal legislative seat at 25 if the speculation holds true.
Wike's Defence: Exposing Sons to Governance
This speculation comes against the backdrop of public scrutiny and criticism the minister has faced for frequently having his sons accompany him to official events. In November 2025, Wike directly addressed the controversy during an appearance on Channels Television's 'Politics Today'.
He defended his actions, stating he had the right to bring his sons along and emphasising the educational value for them. "They have to know how Nigeria is. They have to learn about government," Wike asserted. He pointed out that his sons are master's degree holders and argued that the exposure was crucial. The minister challenged critics to prove any misuse of public funds, asking, "Let the FCT say where they paid N1."
Wike's sons have been spotted with him at several high-profile functions, including project commissioning events in the FCT and a visit to Okrika Local Government Area in Rivers State. The minister was also criticised in October 2025 for taking his sons to a summit in Dubai, United Arab Emirates.
Broader Political Context in Rivers State
The rumour about Wike's son enters a complex political landscape in Rivers State, which has been marked by a protracted crisis between the minister's camp and Governor Siminalayi Fubara. A related report by Legit.ng cited former Senator Olaka Nwogu, who claimed that agreements made to resolve the state's political crisis, potentially including terms about the 2027 gubernatorial election, have been flouted.
When asked if part of the agreement was for Governor Fubara not to seek a second term in 2027, Nwogu replied, "Well, that is part of it." This ongoing tension forms the backdrop against which new political ambitions, such as those rumoured for Wike's son, are being viewed.
As the 2027 election cycle gradually approaches, these rumours, whether substantiated or not, are likely to fuel further debate about political dynasties, youth participation in governance, and the intense rivalry within the political landscape of Rivers State and Nigeria at large.
