…as APC figures and state leaders rally behind with nomination forms
By Gloria Ikibah
Governor Siminalayi Fubara has received an early political lift in the build-up to the 2027 general elections, following a show of support from prominent figures within the All Progressives Congress and other political stakeholders in Rivers State.
A group of party leaders and elders moved to secure and present the governor’s nomination and expression of interest forms, signalling a broad-based endorsement that cuts across party lines.
The delegation, was led by Hon. Awaji-Inombek Abiante, a serving member of the House of Representatives representing Andoni/Opobo-Nkoro Federal Constituency, indicated that the decision was reached after consultations among influential voices across the state. The move, they suggested, reflects what they see as the wider interest of Rivers people rather than narrow political considerations.
Those behind the initiative also framed the development as consistent with Nigeria’s political traditions, where stakeholders often mobilise support for candidates they believe should continue in office.
“This is not new. Even at the national level, stakeholders have, in the past, procured nomination forms for preferred candidates. It is a democratic tradition rooted in collective will,” he said.
Hon. Abiante said the move reflects widespread confidence in Governor Fubara’s leadership, stressing that it was shaped by public opinion rather than individual ambition or financial strength.
“It is not about how deep your pocket is.
“It is about what the people feel. And the people of Rivers State have made their position clear—they want continuity,” he said.
He also drew attention to what he described as the governor’s record in office, citing ongoing infrastructure development, expanded access to underserved communities and growing economic prospects, particularly across riverine areas.
“In places like Andoni, access was a long-standing challenge. Within months, that narrative changed.
“Communities once cut off are now connected and positioned to contribute meaningfully to the blue economy,” he added.
The lawmaker also cited the rehabilitation of key public infrastructure, including the State Secretariat, and improvements in citizens’ welfare as evidence of purposeful governance.
Beyond projects, Abiante stressed governor Fubara’s leadership style and described him as humble, people-oriented, and deeply attuned to the needs of ordinary citizens.
“This is a leader who understands the pains of his people and responds with action,” he noted.
The lawmaker further revealed that Governor Fubara neither initiated nor influenced the move, insisting it was a spontaneous decision by stakeholders determined to sustain the current trajectory.
“He did not send us. This is the voice of the people speaking through their leaders. We have come on their behalf,” Abiante stated.
According to him, the message from across the state is unequivocal: the governor must heed the call to seek re-election.
“The people have contributed their resources to make this happen. He cannot turn his back on them. Rivers people are firmly behind him,” he declared.
With the nomination forms already obtained, the group is preparing to hand them over to the governor on Friday, 1 May 2026.
The planned presentation is likely to sharpen the emerging political dynamics in Rivers State ahead of the 2027 elections, placing Siminalayi Fubara squarely at the heart of the developing race.