Stakeholders within the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Rivers State have intensified political signals ahead of the 2027 governorship election, purchasing the party’s expression of interest and nomination forms for Governor Siminalayi Fubara.
The move is widely seen as a direct counter to the perceived stance of the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, whose political differences with the governor have dominated the state’s landscape in recent times.
Both leaders had been embroiled in a protracted struggle over the control of political structures in Rivers State, a rift that required the intervention of President Bola Tinubu to ease tensions. Despite the reconciliation, speculation persisted that part of the peace deal included a one-term understanding for Fubara—an idea now being challenged by the latest development.
A delegation of party stakeholders, led by House of Representatives member Awaji-Inombek Abiante, announced the purchase on Friday, describing it as a collective decision taken in the interest of the state.
Abiante said the gesture reflects a groundswell of support for the governor and a strong preference for continuity in governance.
According to him, the initiative aligns with established political practice, where party loyalists mobilise support for candidates they consider credible.
He stressed that the action was not driven by financial considerations or personal ambition but by what he described as the prevailing mood among Rivers residents.
The lawmaker pointed to ongoing infrastructure projects, improved access to riverine communities, and emerging economic opportunities as evidence of the administration’s impact. He noted that previously hard-to-reach areas, including Andoni, have witnessed improved connectivity, opening up new prospects within the blue economy.
He also cited the refurbishment of critical public facilities such as the State Secretariat and highlighted what he termed improvements in the welfare of citizens.
Abiante further commended Fubara’s leadership style, portraying him as accessible and responsive to public needs.
He, however, clarified that the governor was neither involved in nor consulted about the purchase of the forms, adding that stakeholders would formally present them to him.