By RismadarVoice Reporters
January 5, 2026
Ahead of the 2027 general elections, the Ijaw Youth Council has endorsed Rivers State Governor, Siminalayi Fubara for a second term, warned the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike against attempts to frustrate his re-election bid – IYC President, Theophilus Alaye said the endorsement followed extensive consultations across the Ijaw nation and a careful assessment of the state’s political direction and development agenda.
The endorsement comes amid political realignments in Rivers State, following Fubara’s defection from the Peoples Democratic Party to the ruling All Progressives Congress, a move widely regarded as a strategic positioning ahead of the 2027 elections. Several members of the Rivers State House of Assembly had earlier defected to the APC
Fubara’s defection marked a decisive break from his long-standing ties with the PDP, positioned him as the face of the APC in Rivers State. In response, Wike criticized the Governor, accusing him of reneging on political agreements, claiming he lacks popular support, insisting that Fubara would not secure re-election.
The Ijaw Youth Council said it remains united in its conviction that Fubara represents stability, maturity, and responsible leadership at a critical moment in the state’s history. The council highlighted that despite political distractions, unwarranted interference, the Governor has remained calm, focused, committed to effective governance
According to the IYC, Fubara’s administration has pursued a people-centered development agenda, focusing on infrastructure renewal, urban development, youth empowerment and job creation; strengthening education and healthcare systems, promoting peace, inclusion and social cohesion; ensuring transparency, accountability, good governance.
Alaye stressed that the patience of the Ijaw people should not be mistaken for weakness. The Ijaw Youth Council Worldwide, under his leadership reaffirms its total unwavering, unequivocal support for Governor Siminalayi Fubara, formally endorses him for a second term in the 2027 elections.
The council does not recognize, accept, or align with any political arrangement or agreement promoted by Nyesom Wike or any of his proxies that seek to undermine the authority, or constitutional mandate of the Governor.
He added that leaders across Nigeria such as Senate President, Godswill Akpabio, Senator Ifeanyi Okowa and Senator Seriake Dickson allowed their successors the political space needed to govern effectively and Governor Fubara deserves the same democratic respect. He spoke on behalf of over 30 million Ijaw youths across the Niger Delta; the Council formally, unanimously endorses Governor Fubara for a second term.
His continuity in office is vital to sustaining peace, unity and development in Rivers State, If the Federal Government and the leadership of the APC desire the support of the Ijaw nation in 2027, respect for the will of the Rivers people and non-interference in state affairs must be upheld
Meanwhile, Governor Fubara called on the Ogoni people and their umbrella body, the Movement for the Survival of the Ogoni People to embrace unity, work collectively towards achieving their shared goals.
He made the call in a felicitation message, marking the annual Ogoni Day on January 4, according to a statement issued in Port Harcourt by the Permanent Secretary of the State Ministry of Information and Communications, Dr Honour Sirawoo, Fubara described Ogoni Day as a powerful symbol of resilience, identity and the historic struggle of the Ogoni nation.
The Governor paid tribute to the trailblazing role of MOSOP whose peaceful struggle brought global attention to issues of environmental justice, equity and human rights in Ogoniland, and the wider Niger Delta region.
He noted that the sacrifices and courage of the Ogoni people remain a defining chapter in Nigeria’s socio-political and democratic history.
The day offers an opportunity for reflection, renewed commitment to the ideals that have sustained their struggle over the decades.
He urged all Ogoni leaders and stakeholders to eschew disunity and internal divisions; stressed that unity of purpose is critical to advancing the collective interest of the people.
The Rivers State Government remains steadfast in its support for a united MOSOP and a united Ogoni people, is committed to supporting genuine efforts which promotes peace, dialogue, reconciliation and sustainable development in Ogoniland and Rivers State.
