Stakeholders of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Rivers State have moved to reinforce Governor Siminalayi Fubara’s political standing by purchasing his expression of interest and nomination forms for the 2027 governorship election.
The development comes in spite of the perceived opposition of the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, whose frosty relationship with the governor has continued to influence political alignments in the state.
Both men were recently locked in a prolonged struggle over the control of political structures, a crisis that drew in President Bola Tinubu and ended in a fragile truce. Political watchers, however, have speculated that the peace arrangement may have included a tacit agreement that Fubara would serve only one term, an assumption now cast in doubt.
Speaking on behalf of the stakeholders, House of Representatives member Awaji-Inombek Abiante said the purchase of the forms was a deliberate and collective decision aimed at sustaining the current administration’s policies.
He described the move as consistent with democratic practice, noting that party loyalists often rally support for candidates they consider capable of delivering on governance.
Abiante dismissed claims that the action was financially motivated, insisting it reflects the will of the people of Rivers State.
He pointed to infrastructure development, improved access to riverine communities, and expanding economic opportunities as key achievements driving support for the governor. According to him, areas such as Andoni have recorded significant improvements in connectivity, enabling greater participation in economic activities.
The lawmaker also referenced the rehabilitation of major public infrastructure, including the State Secretariat, as well as efforts to improve residents’ welfare.
Beyond project delivery, he praised Fubara’s leadership style, describing him as approachable and responsive to the needs of citizens.
He clarified that the governor neither requested nor influenced the purchase of the forms, adding that the documents would be formally presented to him by party stakeholders.
The move highlights ongoing political shifts in Rivers State, particularly following Fubara’s defection from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) to the APC, a transition that continues to reshape the state’s political dynamics ahead of the 2027 election.
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