2027: Rivers elders storm APC office, purchase gubernatorial forms for Fubara

A group of elders and political stakeholders in Rivers State has acquired the All Progressives Congress (APC) governorship nomination forms for Governor Siminalayi Fubara ahead of the 2027 elections, in a move they say reflects “people’s will” rather than the governor’s personal ambition.

The delegation carried out the purchase on Tuesday and was led by Hon. Awaji-Inombek Abiante, who represents the Andoni/Opobo-Nkoro Federal Constituency in the House of Representatives.

Speaking after the exercise, Abiante stressed that Governor Fubara neither authorised nor initiated the action, insisting that it was driven entirely by public demand.

“He didn’t send us here,” Abiante 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.”

He described the initiative as a grassroots political expression funded through contributions from residents across the state, adding that it demonstrates that leadership choices should reflect collective will rather than individual wealth or elite influence.

According to him, the gesture is consistent with established political traditions in Nigeria where supporters purchase nomination forms for preferred candidates as a show of endorsement.

The delegation cited several ongoing infrastructure projects under the Fubara administration as justification for their decision, including the Trans-Kalabari Road, the Andoni access road, and initiatives linked to the state’s Blue Economy development agenda.

They argued that these projects have begun to impact communities positively and should be sustained through continuity in leadership.

Abiante further maintained that the governor still enjoys broad public support, describing him as a leader who understands the struggles of the people.

“This is the first time that the citizens of Rivers State have had someone who is committed to their service,” he said.

As of press time, Governor Fubara has not publicly reacted to the development, and it remains unclear whether he will accept the nomination gesture or formally declare his position on the 2027 race.

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