A fresh political twist has emerged in Rivers State as supporters of Governor Siminalayi Fubara moved to secure his re-election bid—despite opposition from his estranged political ally, Nyesom Wike.

A coalition of elders and stakeholders across the state reportedly purchased Expression of Interest and Nomination forms of the All Progressives Congress (APC) on behalf of the governor, signaling a possible deepening of political divisions within the state.

The delegation, led by Awaji-Inombek Abiante, a member of the House of Representatives, said the decision was driven by what they described as overwhelming public support for Fubara’s leadership.

“This is the voice of the people,” Abiante said, insisting that the governor neither initiated nor influenced the move. “He did not send us. We acted based on the collective will of the people.”

The development comes amid an ongoing rift between Fubara and Wike, raising questions about political alignments ahead of the next election cycle.

Supporters of the governor argued that procuring nomination forms for preferred candidates is not unusual in Nigeria’s political landscape, describing it as a legitimate expression of grassroots backing rather than personal ambition.

They also praised Fubara’s leadership style, citing improvements in infrastructure, increased connectivity in riverine communities, and expanded economic opportunities as reasons for their continued support.

In a related show of solidarity, a coalition of women’s groups in Rivers State publicly endorsed both Fubara and President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for a second term in office.

The groups described their endorsement as necessary to sustain ongoing reforms and maintain political stability in the state and country.

The move by Fubara’s supporters is likely to intensify political tensions in Rivers State, especially given Wike’s continued influence and the implications for party dynamics ahead of the 2027 elections.