2027: Rivers elders obtain APC nomination forms for Siminalayi Fubara
Governor Siminalayi Fubara was formally entered into the 2027 gubernatorial contest on Tuesday by a group of Rivers State elders and political leaders who obtained his Expression of Interest and Nomination forms under the All Progressives Congress, or APC.
On behalf of the Governor, the team bought the form under the leadership of Hon. Awaji-Inombek Abiante, who is the representative of the Andoni/Opobo-Nkoro Federal Constituency. Shortly after, Abiante told the media that the action was a “compulsion” from the public rather than a request from the governor.
He called it a “people-funded” mandate, emphasising that it was a grassroots project supported by donations from regular people across the state.
“He didn’t send us here,” Abiante claimed, “and he won’t even know that we have the forms until after this.” He is being forced by us. He is unable to flee his people.
The congressman downplayed the initiative’s originality, pointing out that it is consistent with long-standing political practices, much like when the Lagos Governance Advisory Council acquired forms for President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.
He argued that this conduct shows that the will of the people, not the “depth of one’s pocket,” determines democracy.
The group cited Fubara’s accomplishments in economic development and infrastructure as the primary justifications for their support. They brought up important initiatives including the Blue Economy, Andoni Access, and the Trans-Kalabari Road.
Abiante remained steadfast when questioned about the governor standing inside the APC and the larger political landscape of Rivers State, claiming that Fubara had a “strong” base of support in spite of external perceptions.
He continued, “This is the first time that the people of Rivers State have had someone who is dedicated to their service—a man who understands the struggles of the people.”
