Nyesom Wike has thrown his weight behind Kingsley Chinda’s bid to become governor of Rivers State in the 2027 election, declaring the APC candidate as the state’s next governor.

Wike made the declaration in Port Harcourt during a luncheon organised by the Rainbow Coalition as political preparations for the 2027 election continue in Rivers State.  

Chinda secured the APC governorship ticket earlier this year after emerging as the party’s candidate in its Rivers State primary. He was the sole aspirant after Governor Siminalayi Fubara and other contenders withdrew from the race.  

The development has placed Chinda at the centre of the political calculations surrounding the 2027 governorship election.

Chinda, a member of the House of Representatives, had been associated with the PDP before his move to the APC. His defection was followed by his resignation as Minority Leader of the House.  

Wike’s latest declaration adds to the support Chinda has received from members of the political coalition linked to the FCT Minister.

In July, Governor Fubara publicly declared his support for the Rainbow Coalition and backed Chinda for the Rivers governorship. He also endorsed President Bola Tinubu for a second term.  

The latest statement from Wike further underscores the political alignment surrounding Chinda ahead of the 2027 election.

However, the governorship will ultimately be decided by voters at the election.