As political activities begin to build ahead of the 2027 general elections, concerns are rising over low political participation and possible external influence on the democratic process in Rivers State. Usually, this period is marked by active consultations, party alignments, and grassroots mobilisation. However, analysts say the current situation shows a worrying level of inactivity among political actors.
A public affairs analyst, Opunabo Nko-Tariah, has raised concerns about what he described as poor political preparation by parties and key stakeholders in the state. In an interview with our reporters, he linked the situation to what he called “state capture,” claiming that powerful interests are influencing political processes and weakening democratic institutions.
According to him, this has created a system where important political decisions, including the selection of candidates, may be controlled by external forces rather than party members or the voting public. He warned that this trend could reduce public trust in the electoral process if it continues.
“We are supposed to practice democracy, but what we have is different,” he said. “What we see looks more like aristocracy and plutocracy than true democracy. The issue of state capture has made it hard for political actors to act independently. Even a sitting governor may depend on signals from the presidency before making key decisions, including seeking re-election.”
Nko-Tariah also noted that with party primaries approaching, there are concerns about whether the process will be free and fair. He stressed that candidates should emerge through transparent and credible internal contests, not through endorsements influenced by powerful individuals.
“The primaries are close, and things should not be like this,” he added. “In a proper democratic system, a candidate with real grassroots support should be able to win without interference. Unfortunately, that may not happen under the current system.”
Nko-Tariah, a former Special Adviser to ex-Governor Nyesom Wike, also warned that the will of the people may not be respected in the 2027 elections if the current situation continues. He expressed concern that candidates could be imposed on voters, further weakening democratic values.
“We do not have full democracy in practice,” he said. “People are not allowed to freely make their choices, and this has added to the country’s problems. Every day, the situation gets worse because the will of the people is ignored. Instead, people are put in power mainly to serve personal interests, not the general public.”
