Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, has reportedly opened talks with the national leadership of the Social Democratic Party (SDP) over a possible alliance ahead of the forthcoming local government elections in Rivers State.
Political sources say the move is a strategic response to mounting pressure on Wike’s political structure following the defection of Rivers State Governor, Siminalayi Fubara, from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) to the All Progressives Congress (APC). With Fubara now firmly in control of APC structures and ticket allocations in the state, Wike’s long-standing influence faces a major test.
According to insiders, Wike is exploring the option of fielding SDP candidates across all 23 local government areas in Rivers as a way to retain relevance and counter the governor’s growing dominance. While discussions are said to be ongoing, the SDP’s official position on the proposed partnership remains unclear.
Analysts note that Fubara’s defection has significantly altered the political equation in Rivers State. By aligning with the APC, the governor has effectively taken control of a powerful electoral platform, leaving Wike increasingly isolated within the PDP, where internal disputes over leadership and candidate selection have weakened his grip.
Wike’s rift with Fubara, once his trusted political ally, has further deepened the crisis. Several former associates have reportedly drifted towards the APC or other political parties, shrinking the minister’s traditional support base in the state.
Political observers describe Wike’s outreach to the SDP as a tactical move aimed at challenging the APC’s expanding influence in Rivers and indirectly confronting President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s party on familiar terrain. However, they caution that any alliance would require delicate negotiations, as the SDP must weigh the electoral advantages of partnering with a high-profile figure against the risks of being drawn into an intense political rivalry.
As the local government elections draw closer, Rivers State is shaping up to be a major battleground, with Wike’s next move likely to determine whether he can reassert his influence or continue to lose ground in the state’s rapidly evolving political landscape.
