Reported by Simon yusuph,| Journalist at wengglobal
A prominent women’s political group in Rivers State has endorsed the governorship ambition of Kingsley Chinda and pledged support for candidates of the All Progressives Congress (APC) under the emerging Rainbow Coalition, describing Governor Siminalayi Fubara’s reconciliation with the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, as a critical step toward restoring lasting peace and political stability in the state.
The endorsement reflects the latest development in Rivers State’s evolving political landscape ahead of the 2027 general elections, where alliances that once appeared unlikely are reshaping the state’s political calculations.
According to the women leaders, the reconciliation between Fubara and Wike has significantly reduced political tensions that dominated the state in recent years. They argued that sustaining the renewed cooperation among political stakeholders would create a more peaceful environment for governance, investment, and democratic participation.
The group declared its support for Kingsley Chinda, who has emerged as a leading figure within the Rainbow Coalition, while also calling on Rivers residents, particularly women and youths, to support APC candidates participating under the coalition’s platform.
Coalition Politics Gains Momentum
The endorsement comes days after Governor Fubara publicly declared support for the Rainbow Coalition led by Wike, urging his supporters to join the political alliance and work toward a united future for Rivers State.
Speaking during a recent public event, the governor said the period of political confrontation had ended, stressing that peace should now take precedence over conflict. He encouraged residents to support President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s second-term bid, Kingsley Chinda’s governorship aspiration, and other candidates presented by the coalition.
Political observers view the governor’s declaration as one of the most significant political realignments in Rivers State since the prolonged dispute between Fubara and his predecessor, Wike, reshaped the state’s political environment.
The Rainbow Coalition brings together influential politicians from the APC, the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), and other political interests seeking a united front ahead of the next electoral cycle.
Women Emphasise Peace and Inclusive Development
Leaders of the women’s group said their endorsement was motivated by the desire to preserve the fragile peace achieved through reconciliation.
They maintained that prolonged political hostility had slowed development and created uncertainty across the state, affecting economic activities and governance.
According to the group, women remain among the most affected during periods of political instability and therefore have a responsibility to support initiatives capable of promoting unity, security, and inclusive development.
The leaders urged politicians across party lines to avoid inflammatory rhetoric capable of reigniting divisions, insisting that issue-based campaigns should define the 2027 elections.
They also appealed to political supporters to embrace tolerance and democratic engagement throughout the electioneering period.
Chinda’s Political Profile
Kingsley Chinda is widely recognised for his legislative experience and longstanding involvement in Nigerian politics. His emergence as a central figure within the Rainbow Coalition has attracted growing support from several political organisations and interest groups across Rivers State.
In recent months, multiple political associations have publicly endorsed his governorship aspiration, describing him as a candidate capable of providing continuity, stability, and experienced leadership.
Supporters argue that his legislative background and cross-party relationships position him to unite diverse political interests in Rivers State.
Significance of Fubara-Wike Reconciliation
The reconciliation between Governor Fubara and Wike represents a major turning point after months of political disagreements that attracted national attention.
Their dispute had generated institutional tensions involving the executive and legislative arms of government, raising concerns among political analysts about governance and stability in one of Nigeria’s most economically strategic states.
The recent rapprochement has been welcomed by several political stakeholders, traditional leaders, civil society organisations, and community groups who believe sustained cooperation could help restore confidence among investors and strengthen governance.
While political analysts acknowledge that alliances can evolve as elections approach, many agree that the renewed cooperation between both leaders has fundamentally altered Rivers State’s political landscape.
Looking Ahead to 2027
As preparations gradually intensify for the 2027 general elections, Rivers State is expected to remain one of Nigeria’s most closely watched political battlegrounds.
The endorsement by the women’s group adds another layer of support for the Rainbow Coalition and reinforces indications that reconciliation efforts are translating into broader political mobilisation.
Whether the coalition can maintain unity through the election season remains to be seen. However, the current alignment suggests that peace, reconciliation, and coalition-building will remain dominant themes in Rivers politics over the coming months.
For many observers, the emphasis on dialogue rather than confrontation represents an opportunity to strengthen democratic institutions and encourage more issue-based political engagement.
WengGlobal will continue monitoring developments as political parties, candidates, and civic groups prepare for what is expected to be a highly competitive electoral cycle.
Sources:
- The Guardian Nigeria
- Punch Newspapers
- TheCable
- Voice of Nigeria (VON)
- The Nation Newspaper
