A delegation of All Progressives Congress (APC) stakeholders and political leaders in Rivers State has purchased the expression of interest and nomination forms for Governor Siminalayi Fubara ahead of the 2027 governorship election.
Awaji-Inombek Abiante, member representing Andoni/Opobo-Nkoro federal constituency in the House of Representatives, led the delegation. He said elders and leaders across the state took the decision “in the overriding interest of Rivers people.”
Abiante noted that the move reflects Nigeria’s democratic tradition, where stakeholders often procure forms for preferred candidates.
“This is not new, it is a democratic tradition rooted in the collective will of the people,” he said.
He added that the decision was based on public confidence in Fubara’s performance, not personal or financial considerations.
“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,” Abiante said.
The lawmaker cited infrastructure gains under Fubara, including improved access to previously neglected riverine communities, rehabilitation of key public facilities such as the state secretariat, and renewed economic opportunities, particularly in the blue economy.
He described the governor as a humble, people-oriented leader who “understands the pains of his people and responds with action.”
According to the group, Fubara neither initiated nor influenced the purchase of the forms, calling it a spontaneous expression of popular support.
“He did not send us. This is the voice of the people speaking through their leaders,” Abiante said.
He added that the people contributed resources and expect the governor to heed their call for re-election.
The forms are expected to be formally presented to Fubara on May 1.
