A delegation of Rivers State elders and political leaders on Tuesday officially entered Governor Siminalayi Fubara into the 2027 gubernatorial race by procuring his Expression of Interest and Nomination forms under the All Progressives Congress (APC).
The group, led by Hon. Awaji-Inombek Abiante, representative of the Andoni/Opobo-Nkoro Federal Constituency, completed the transaction at the Abuja Continental Hotel. Speaking to reporters shortly after, Abiante characterized the move as a “compulsion” by the people rather than a request from the Governor himself.
A “People-Funded” Mandate
Abiante emphasized that the procurement was a grassroots effort, funded by contributions from ordinary citizens across the state.
”He didn’t send us here,” Abiante declared. “It is after now that he may even know that we have procured the forms. We are compelling him. He cannot run away from his people.”
The lawmaker downplayed the novelty of the move, noting that it follows established political traditions, such as when the Governance Advisory Council of Lagos procured forms for President Bola Ahmed Tinubu. He argued that the gesture proves democracy is not about the “depth of one’s pocket,” but about the will of the people.
Performance and Infrastructure
The delegation cited Fubara’s record in infrastructure and economic expansion as the primary catalyst for their support. Key projects highlighted included:
The Trans-Kalabari Road: A project Abiante claimed had eluded previous administrations for decades.
Andoni Access: The completion of motorable roads to previously isolated local government headquarters within the Governor’s first six months.
The Blue Economy: Initiatives aimed at unlocking the economic potential of the state’s coastal regions and promoting international tourism.
Confidence Amidst Political Dynamics
When questioned about the Governor’s standing within the APC and the broader political landscape of Rivers State, Abiante remained defiant, insisting that Fubara maintains a “firm” support base despite external perceptions.
”This is the only time that the citizens of Rivers State have had somebody who is dedicated to their service—a man who understands the pains of the people,” he added.
The delegation concluded by asserting that the 2027 bid is a response to widespread approval of Fubara’s “humility and responsiveness” in office, sending a clear signal that the “Rivers people are behind him.”