2027: IYC endorses Fubara for second term in Rivers

… cautions against interference

Amidst the power tussle in the Rivers State chapter of the All Progressives Congress (APC), the Ijaw Youth Council (IYC) has endorsed Governor Siminalayi Fubara of Rivers state for a second term in office.

President of the Forum, Dr Theophilus Alaye, disclosed this in a statement issued on Sunday in Abuja.

He said its decision followed extensive consultations across the Ijaw nation and a thorough review of the political and developmental direction of the state.

Tribune Online checks revealed that lawmakers in the state Assembly have kicked against an automatic ticket for Governor Fubara.

Further checks, however, revealed that members of the APC National Working Committee have maintained that the Rivers State governor, being the leader of the party in the state, would be accorded the same privileges extended to his other colleagues in the APC Governors Forum.

Fubara is now APC leader in Rivers — Yilwatda

The President of the IYC noted that his leadership is united in the belief that Fubara represents stability, maturity, and responsible governance at a critical time in Rivers State’s history.

The Ijaw Forum noted that despite persistent political distractions and undue interference, Fubara has remained calm, focused, and committed to delivering quality governance.

The council said his administration continued to pursue a clear and people-centred development agenda anchored on infrastructure renewal and urban development, youth empowerment and job creation.

The IYC appealed to political foes of Governor Fubara to allow him the freedom to discharge his constitutional responsibilities without interference.

Alaye stressed that the patience of the Ijaw people should not be mistaken for weakness.

He added: “The Ijaw Youth Council Worldwide, under the leadership of Dr Alaye Tari Theophilus, hereby reaffirms its total, unwavering, and unequivocal support for Governor Siminalayi Fubara, and formally endorses him for a second term in office in the 2027 general elections.

“The Ijaw Youth Council Worldwide categorically states that we do not recognise, accept, or align with any political arrangements or agreements being promoted to undermine the authority or constitutional mandate of the Governor of Rivers State.

“On behalf of over 30 million Ijaw youths across the Niger Delta, we hereby formally and unanimously endorse Governor Siminalayi Fubara for a second term in 2027. We believe his continuity in office is vital to sustaining peace, unity, and development in Rivers State.

“The Ijaw Youth Council Worldwide remains committed to justice, equity, and the democratic aspirations of the Ijaw people and the Nigerian state.

“If the federal government and the leadership of the All Progressives Congress (APC) desire the support of the Ijaw Nation in 2027, then respect the will of the Rivers people and non-interference in the affairs of the state must be upheld.”