Donu Kogbara, a prominent international media personality, has criticized FCT Minister Nyesom Wike for selecting another Ikwerre man, Ogundu Kingsley Chinda, as the All Progressives Congress (APC) governorship candidate for Rivers State ahead of the 2027 general elections. Speaking during an interview on Arise Television’s ‘Prime Time’ programme on Thursday, Kogbara expressed strong reservations about the appointment, calling it ethically and socially insensitive. She argued that the choice perpetuates an imbalance in political representation within the state, particularly given the long-standing underrepresentation of other ethnic groups.
Kogbara acknowledged that Chinda is a decent individual but maintained that he should have declined the nomination. She pointed out that Chinda hails from the same village as Wike and is also Ikwerre, a group that has already produced multiple governors in Rivers State. “We have had three or four Ikwerre governors,” she stated, emphasizing that the ethnic group’s turn in leadership has been overextended. This, she said, leaves other communities, especially the Ogoni people, without a single governor, deputy governor, speaker, or chief judge in the state’s history.
The media personality stressed that the issue is not personal but rooted in fairness and equity. “I’m going to fight Chinda over this governorship thing,” she declared, adding that her opposition stems from ethical concerns rather than animosity. She believes Chinda, being aware of the political dynamics and historical context, should have stepped aside to allow a candidate from a less-represented ethnic group to have a chance. “He knows it’s not his turn. It’s his ethnic group’s turn,” she said, underscoring the need for rotational leadership and inclusive governance.
Chinda’s emergence as the APC candidate was confirmed on Thursday, following internal party processes. His selection has sparked debate across Rivers State, with many calling for a more balanced approach to political appointments. Critics argue that continuous representation from the same ethnic group undermines the spirit of unity and fair play in Nigeria’s democratic framework. Kogbara’s comments have added to the growing discourse on equity in governance, especially in a state as diverse as Rivers.
As the 2027 elections draw closer, the conversation around representation and fairness will likely intensify. The political landscape in Rivers State may soon reflect a broader push for inclusivity, with voices like Kogbara’s reminding leaders of their responsibility to ensure that no community is left behind. The coming years will test whether political leaders prioritize equity over loyalty, and whether candidates like Chinda are willing to make room for change.
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