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Wike's Political Influence Declining Ahead of 2027 Elections

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  //politics-government.news-articles.net/content/ .. influence-declining-ahead-of-2027-elections.html
  Published in Politics and Government on Sunday, January 4th 2026 at 1:02 GMT by legit

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Wike's Political Influence Fading? Analysis Suggests Diminished Role in Nigeria’s 2027 Election Landscape

The recent pronouncements and actions of former Rivers State Governor Nyesom Wike are being interpreted by many political analysts within Nigeria as signs of a significant decline in his influence ahead of the 2027 presidential election. A report published on Legit.ng highlights this perceived waning power, suggesting that Wike’s attempts to shape the narrative and potentially endorse candidates are falling increasingly flat, leading some to declare him “politically buried.”

The core argument presented is that Wike's post-governorship trajectory has been marked by a series of missteps and a lack of tangible political gains. While he remains a vocal figure, his pronouncements are no longer carrying the weight they once did, particularly within the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC). This shift stems from several factors, primarily related to his role in facilitating Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s victory in 2023 and subsequent actions that have alienated key figures within both APC and the opposition Peoples Democratic Party (PDP).

The Context: Wike's Pivotal Role in 2023 & Subsequent Fallout

To understand this current assessment, it's crucial to revisit Wike’s position leading up to the 2023 election. As a prominent figure within the PDP, Wike was initially considered a strong contender for the presidential ticket. However, his ambition was thwarted by Atiku Abubakar. Following this setback, and reportedly feeling betrayed by the PDP leadership (as detailed in an interview with Channels Television – linked in the Legit.ng article), Wike played a crucial role in supporting Bola Tinubu’s campaign. He leveraged his influence within Rivers State and beyond to deliver significant votes to the APC candidate, effectively undermining Atiku Abubakar's chances. This move was seen as a strategic maneuver by Wike, potentially positioning him for a powerful position within the new administration.

However, that expectation has not materialized. Tinubu’s appointments largely bypassed Wike, opting instead for individuals perceived as more loyal and less likely to challenge his authority. This snub, coupled with what many see as an attempt by Wike to maintain relevance through public commentary and endorsements, has backfired spectacularly.

The Current Situation: Failed Endorsements & Diminished Impact

The Legit.ng article points specifically to Wike’s recent endorsement of Hon. Wale Tinubu (no relation to Bola Tinubu) for the Lagos State governorship in 2027 as a prime example of his declining influence. This endorsement, intended to demonstrate Wike's continued power and ability to sway voters, was met with lukewarm reception. It failed to generate significant buzz or translate into tangible support for Wale Tinubu. This lack of impact is attributed to several factors:

• Loss of Credibility: Wike’s perceived betrayal of the PDP has damaged his credibility among many within the opposition party. His endorsements are now viewed with skepticism, particularly by those who feel he abandoned them in 2023.
• APC Discomfort: While initially welcomed for his support in 2023, Wike’s outspokenness and perceived ambition make him an uncomfortable figure for many within the APC. His criticisms of government policies, even when couched in constructive language, are seen as undermining Tinubu's authority.
• Rivers State Dynamics: The current administration in Rivers State, led by Governor Siminalayi Ebule (Simi Fubara), is actively distancing itself from Wike’s influence. Fubara has publicly challenged Wike’s authority and asserted his own independence, further diminishing the former governor's power base within his home state. The ongoing political feud in Rivers State, as reported by Premium Times (linked in the Legit.ng article), is a significant factor contributing to Wike’s weakened position.
• Shifting Political Landscape: The Nigerian political landscape is constantly evolving. New alliances are forming, and younger politicians are emerging, challenging the dominance of established figures like Wike.

Looking Ahead: A Politically Marginalized Figure?

The Legit.ng report concludes that Wike’s attempts to remain a central player in Nigerian politics appear increasingly futile. His pronouncements are now largely dismissed as irrelevant, and his endorsements carry little weight. While he retains some level of influence within certain circles, the overall trajectory suggests a significant decline in his political power. The article posits that unless Wike can fundamentally alter his approach and rebuild trust with key stakeholders, he risks becoming a politically marginalized figure leading up to the 2027 elections. His future role will likely be as an observer rather than a shaper of events.

The piece also suggests that other political figures are capitalizing on Wike’s diminished standing, further solidifying their own positions within the APC and PDP. The power vacuum created by his decline is being filled by those who have demonstrated greater loyalty and strategic acumen.

Disclaimer: It's important to acknowledge potential biases in Nigerian news reporting. Political narratives can be heavily influenced by partisan interests and personal agendas. While this summary aims to present a balanced overview of the Legit.ng article, readers should critically evaluate all sources and consider alternative perspectives on Wike’s political standing. Furthermore, the situation is fluid, and his influence could potentially shift again depending on future events and alliances. Sources like Premium Times often provide more in-depth analysis that can help contextualize these narratives.