“APC Rivers Crisis Deepens as Supporters Protest Tein Jack Rich’s Disqualification From Senatorial Race”
Supporters of prominent businessman and politician Tein Jack Rich have staged protests following his reported disqualification from the senatorial race in Rivers State under the platform of the All Progressives Congress (APC), intensifying internal tensions within the party ahead of the next electoral cycle.
The protests, which reportedly drew supporters and political loyalists from different parts of Rivers State, were fueled by allegations that influential figures within the APC are manipulating the party’s internal processes to favour candidates aligned with former Rivers State governor and current Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike.
Demonstrators accused party stakeholders of sidelining Jack-Rich despite his political influence, grassroots support, and longstanding involvement in the state’s political landscape. Protesters reportedly carried placards demanding transparency, fairness, and inclusiveness in the APC’s candidate selection process.
Jack Rich, founder of Belemaoil Producing Limited and a former presidential aspirant, has maintained a visible political presence in Rivers State in recent years. His supporters argue that his exclusion from the senatorial contest could deepen existing fractures within the APC in Rivers State, where rival political interests continue to shape party dynamics.
Although the APC leadership in Rivers State has yet to issue a comprehensive public explanation regarding the disqualification, party insiders cited by several Nigerian media outlets suggested that internal screening processes and strategic political considerations may have influenced the decision.
Political analysts say the development reflects the broader struggle for control and influence within Rivers politics, particularly as alliances shift ahead of future elections. The state remains one of Nigeria’s most politically significant regions due to its economic importance and history of intense political competition.
Observers also note that the controversy may test the APC’s ability to maintain unity in Rivers State, especially amid ongoing debates surrounding the influence of Wike and his allies within both state and national political structures.
The protest comes at a time when political parties across Nigeria are facing increasing scrutiny over transparency in candidate selection, internal democracy, and the management of factional disputes.