A group of Rivers State elders and political leaders formally entered Gov Fubara into the 2027 gubernatorial race by obtaining his Expression of Interest and Nomination forms under the All Progressives Congress (APC).
A delegation led by Awaji-Inombek Abiante, who represents the Andoni/Opobo-Nkoro Federal Constituency, bought the form on behalf of the governor.
Shortly afterward, Abiante told the media that the move was a “compulsion” from the people rather than a request from the governor.
He referred to it as a “people-funded” mandate, adding that the initiative was a grassroots endeavor, financed by contributions from everyday citizens throughout the state.
“He didn’t send us here,” Abiante asserted, adding: “It is only after this that he may even become aware that we have acquired the forms. We are compelling him. He cannot escape from his people.”
The congressman downplayed the initiative’s originality, noting that it aligns with long-standing political practices, similar to when the Lagos Governance Advisory Council obtained forms for Bola Tinubu.
He also argued that this approach shows that the will of the people—not the “depth of one’s pocket”—drives democracy.
The group also cited Fubara’s accomplishments in economic development and infrastructure as the primary justifications for their support.
Additionally, they highlighted key initiatives, including the Blue Economy, Andoni Access, and the Trans-Kalabari Road.
When asked about the governor’s standing within the APC and the broader political landscape in Rivers State, Awaji-Inombek Abiante maintained that Siminalayi Fubara enjoys a “strong” base of support despite external perceptions.
BACKSTORY…
Prior to this, Arise Television Politics Editor, Sumner Sambo suggested that Rivers State Governor, Siminalayi Fubara, has lost significant political influence within Nigeria’s political landscape.
He also claimed that supporters of the governor appear uncertain about his political standing and future direction.
Meanwhile, Pastor Tonye Cole, the All Progressives Congress’s (APC) 2023 candidate for governor, has paid N50 million for the party’s nomination and expression of interest forms.
The development has created uncertainty as Cole is going head to head with the APC leader in the state in the person of Gov Fubara
