Aspirants loyal to the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, have emerged victorious in the All Progressives Congress (APC) primary elections for the upcoming legislative bye-elections in Rivers State.
The ruling party conducted its primaries on Monday to select flagbearers for the Ahoada East II and Khana II State Constituencies. These seats, which became vacant following the resignation of a former occupant and the demise of another, are slated to be filled during the general bye-elections on 21 February 2026.
In Ahoada East State Constituency II, Napoleo Ukalikpe secured the party’s ticket, while Mrs Bulabari Henrietta Loolo emerged as the candidate for Khana State Constituency II.
Notably, Mrs Loolo is the widow of the late Honourable Dinebari Loolo, who represented the Khana II constituency until his passing in September 2023.
The outcome of the primaries is being viewed by political analysts as a significant show of strength for the FCT Minister. Despite Governor Siminalayi Fubara’s official status as the leader of the party in the state, having reportedly joined the APC in late 2025, the emergence of Wike’s associates as candidates suggests a lingering and potent influence within the party’s grassroots structure.
The upcoming polls represent more than just a quest for legislative representation; they are widely considered a litmus test for the political supremacy battle currently unfolding in Rivers State.
| Constituency | APC Candidate | Preceding Occupant | Reason for Vacancy |
| Ahoada East II | Napoleo Ukalikpe | Edison Ehie | Resignation (Appointed Chief of Staff) |
| Khana II | Henrietta Loolo | Dinebari Loolo | Deceased (September 2023) |
The successful conduct of these primaries marks the end of the internal selection process, with the party now pivoting toward a general campaign to secure these vital seats in the State House of Assembly.
