The political rift between Federal Capital Territory Minister Nyesom Wike and Rivers State Governor Siminalayi Fubara has deepened after the All Progressives Congress (APC) House of Assembly Screening Committee disqualified 32 aspirants backing the governor.
Disqualification and Clearance
While the governor's preferred candidates were rejected, the four-member committee approved all 29 incumbent members of the State House of Assembly loyal to Wike, including Deputy Speaker Dumle Maol, to participate in the 2027 primaries.
The committee, chaired by Rt. Hon. Muraina Ajibola, evaluated a total of 98 aspirants over two days at the APC Secretariat in Port Harcourt. In its report, the panel stated that it adhered to a transparent and fair process aimed at upholding the party's democratic principles.
Notable Developments
The report highlighted that current House Speaker Martin Amaewhule has opted to obtain a nomination form for the House of Representatives rather than seeking re-election to the state assembly.
Although the exercise was largely peaceful, the committee noted an incident involving Mr. Victor Oko-Jumbo, who allegedly attempted to enter the venue with a large security detail, resulting in a brief altercation with police officers.
Additionally, the committee reported that one aspirant was handed over to the police after an alleged attempt to bribe committee members.
Impact on Political Landscape
These screening outcomes further expose the internal divisions within the state's political environment as parties gear up for the 2027 general elections.
