Stakeholders of the All Progressives Congress in Rivers State have secured nomination and expression of interest forms for Governor Siminalayi Fubara ahead of the 2027 governorship race, signalling early backing for his continued stay in office.
The development was made public on Friday by a group led by Awaji-Inombek Abiante, a member of the House of Representatives. He said the action followed consultations among party leaders across the state, adding that it was driven by what they believe reflects the wishes of the electorate.
Abiante described the move as a collective political decision rather than an individual initiative, noting that similar steps have been taken in the past at different levels of Nigerian politics. According to him, the purchase of the forms underscores confidence in the governor’s stewardship and a preference for policy continuity. Politics
He dismissed suggestions that financial influence played a role, insisting that public sentiment, not wealth, informed the decision. He argued that residents had signalled their desire for Fubara to remain in office beyond his current term.
Highlighting the administration’s record, the lawmaker pointed to infrastructure expansion and improved access to riverine communities, particularly in areas such as Andoni, where connectivity challenges had long persisted. He said recent projects had begun to integrate previously isolated communities into the state’s economic framework, including opportunities linked to the blue economy.
Abiante also referenced ongoing upgrades to key government facilities and what he characterised as improvements in social welfare. Beyond physical projects, he praised the governor’s approach to governance, portraying him as attentive to public concerns and responsive in addressing them.
He maintained that Fubara neither requested nor influenced the procurement of the forms, which are expected to be formally handed over to him.
The move comes against the backdrop of shifting political alliances in the state following the rift between Fubara and his predecessor, Nyesom Wike. The dispute over control of political structures triggered divisions within the Peoples Democratic Party and contributed to a prolonged political standoff. Politics
Fubara’s eventual defection to the APC reshaped the state’s political balance, and he has since been working to strengthen his position within the party ahead of the next electoral cycle.
