The All Progressives Congress (APC) is gearing up to seize political control in Rivers State, as National Chairman Abdullahi Ganduje expressed strong intentions to unseat Governor Sim Fubara in the 2027 elections.

Ganduje’s remarks came during a reception for Dawari Ibietela George, the former Action Alliance (AA) 2023 governorship candidate, who recently defected to the APC.

Speaking on the party’s strategy for Rivers, Ganduje said, “Rivers State will be completely APC,” underscoring his commitment to transforming the state’s chapter of the APC into a formidable political force.

He further described George as a “big fish” in the political landscape, praising his experience and influence as key to strengthening the party’s presence in the region.

In welcoming George, Ganduje assured him of equal standing within the party, saying, “You are now equal members with every other member of the party.

We are bent on widening democracy in the country.” He pledged to “rebuild and reposition” the APC in Rivers, envisioning a strong foundation to accommodate George and other potential returnees.

The announcement comes amid political turbulence involving Fubara and Nyesom Wike, the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory.

While Wike has denied claims of aligning with Tony Okocha, a former APC state chairman, Okocha recently vowed to “de-market” Fubara before the upcoming election.

With these alliances shifting, Ganduje’s comments mark the start of a high-stakes race for political influence in Rivers, setting the stage for intensified contestation as 2027 approaches