Rivers 2027: Stakeholders Secure APC Nomination Forms for Fubara
Ahead of the 2027 political cycle in Rivers State, a coalition of elders and influential stakeholders has moved to secure nomination forms for Governor Siminalayi Fubara under the All Progressives Congress (APC), a development that is already stirring conversations across the state’s political landscape.
The action, carried out on Tuesday, was led by Hon. Awaji-Inombek Abiante, who represents the Andoni/Opobo-Nkoro Federal Constituency in the House of Representatives. PulseNets learned that the governor was neither consulted nor directly involved in the process, reinforcing claims that the initiative originated outside his immediate political structure.
Addressing journalists shortly after the purchase, Abiante emphasized that the governor had no prior knowledge of the move.
“He didn’t send us here,” he said. “It is only after this that he may even become aware that we have acquired the forms. We are compelling him. He cannot escape from his people.”
The lawmaker framed the development as a direct outcome of public demand rather than elite orchestration. PulseNets reported that Abiante dismissed any suggestion of personal ambition on the part of the governor, insisting instead that the gesture reflects a groundswell of support from ordinary citizens.
He further disclosed that the funds used to procure the nomination forms were sourced collectively from residents across Rivers State. According to him, the effort was entirely grassroots-driven, underscoring what he described as a shift toward people-powered political participation.
Abiante characterized the move as a “people-funded” initiative, arguing that democratic engagement should not be dictated by financial strength but by the collective will of the electorate.
PulseNets gathered that the lawmaker also downplayed the novelty of the development, pointing out that similar political gestures have occurred in Nigeria’s democratic history, where groups rallied to purchase nomination forms for preferred leaders. He maintained that such actions represent public endorsement rather than imposition by political elites.
The delegation justified its decision by pointing to ongoing infrastructure and economic initiatives under Fubara’s administration. Among the projects cited were the Trans-Kalabari Road and the Andoni access route, alongside broader efforts to develop the state’s Blue Economy.
According to the group, these initiatives are already delivering tangible benefits to local communities, strengthening the case for policy continuity beyond the current administration.
Abiante also addressed concerns surrounding political loyalties and alignments within Rivers State, insisting that the governor retains significant grassroots backing.
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“This is the first time that the citizens of Rivers State have had someone who is committed to their service—a man who comprehends the struggles of the people,” he added.
As of the time of filing this report, Governor Fubara has not issued any official response regarding the purchased nomination forms. PulseNets learnt that it remains uncertain whether he will accept the gesture or make a formal declaration in the coming weeks.
