A new political development in Rivers State has emerged as a coalition of elders and supporters openly opposed the stance of the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, by purchasing the All Progressives Congress (APC) Expression of Interest and Nomination forms for Governor Siminalayi Fubara.
The move, described as a significant political signal, suggests a widening rift within the state’s political structure ahead of future elections.
The delegation was led by Hon. Awaji-Inombek Abiante, who represents the Andoni/Opobo-Nkoro Federal Constituency in the House of Representatives.
He said the decision was taken collectively by elders and leaders across Rivers State in what he described as the overriding interest of the people.
Abiante insisted that the action was rooted in popular sentiment and not personal ambition or financial influence.
He argued that such gestures are part of Nigeria’s democratic practice, where stakeholders sometimes procure nomination forms for preferred candidates.
“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.
“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 further clarified that Governor Fubara was not involved in the decision.
“He did not send us,” Abiante stated. “This is the voice of the people speaking through their leaders. We have come on their behalf.”
Abiante praised Governor Fubara’s leadership style, describing him as humble and responsive to the needs of citizens.
According to him, the administration has recorded visible progress in infrastructure development and expanded access to previously underserved communities.
He highlighted improvements in riverine areas, noting that long-standing access challenges were being addressed.
“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 said.
Meanwhile, two women’s groups—Rivers Women Unite for SIM and Renewed Hope Women of Faith in Politics have also declared support for Governor Fubara and President Bola Tinubu.
At a praise rally in Rivers State, the coalition said their backing was driven by confidence in the leadership of both men and their development agenda.
“Right now Rivers State is not in the hands of man, but in the hands of God,” the group said.
They added that support for both leaders was necessary to sustain ongoing reforms and ensure continued stability and progress in the state and across the country.
The women’s coalition urged residents to remain patient and supportive, arguing that continuity would help consolidate gains already achieved in governance and development.
