Rivers Renaissance Restoration Warns Against Alleged Attempt to Impose Kingsley Chinda as 2027 Governor

Rivers Renaissance Restoration (RRR), a civic advocacy group, has raised alarms over what it describes as a disturbing attempt by former Governor Nyesom Wike to install his kinsman, Hon. Kingsley O. Chinda, as Rivers State Governor in 2027. The group warned that such a move, if true, undermines principles of fairness, zoning, and equitable representation.

In a statement released on Saturday, RRR criticized the alleged plan, highlighting the long-standing dominance of the Rivers East senatorial district, particularly the Ikwerre/Obio-Akpor axis, in the governorship of the state.

“Rivers State is structured along three senatorial districtsRivers East, Rivers South-East, and Rivers West comprising 23 local government areas with diverse ethnic and political interests. For decades, the governorship has been largely dominated by Rivers East, marginalizing other districts,” the group said.

RRR argued that any credible path to political stability and unity in Rivers State must respect rotational leadership across the senatorial districts, ensuring inclusivity and fairness.

“It is only just and equitable that the next governor of Rivers State in 2027 should emerge from outside Rivers East. Anything to the contrary risks deepening existing grievances and perceptions of exclusion,” the statement added.

The organization also cautioned against attempts to concentrate power within a narrow political axis, raising concerns about alleged overreach and influence within party structures.

“While these remain allegations, there is growing public concern about attempts to exert undue influence over political institutions and succession processes. Such tendencies, if unchecked, threaten democracy and the independence of critical institutions,” RRR said.

The group warned that any perceived imposition of a candidate could escalate ethnic and political tensions, potentially destabilizing the state’s fragile political balance.

RRR urged political stakeholders, civil society, and the public to safeguard democratic principles and resist attempts to subvert zoning agreements.

“We urge all Rivers people to stand firm in defense of fairness, justice, and equity. Leadership must reflect the diversity of the state and not be dictated by narrow interests,” the statement concluded.