KEY POINTS

• Governor Siminalayi Fubara is expected to secure a second term in 2027, according to Opunabo.  
• Opunabo dismissed Wike’s opposition to Fubara’s re-election bid as ineffective.  
• He emphasized that power comes from God and Fubara should be allowed to complete two terms.  

Opunabo Inkor Tariah, former media adviser to ex-Governor Nyesom Wike, expressed confidence that Governor Siminalayi Fubara would secure a second term in 2027 if he chooses to run.

Reacting to a recent interview given by Wike, Opunabo highlighted Fubara’s successful “mass-oriented projects” across Rivers State, which have garnered strong public support.

“No one can stop Fubara from running for re-election, not even Wike,” Opunabo said. He added, “Power comes from God, and both Wike and Amaechi served for eight years. Fubara should have the same opportunity to serve two terms.”

Defending Fubara’s leadership

Opunabo criticized Wike’s claim that Fubara was acting lawlessly and had disregarded the presidential peace accord. According to Opunabo, the accord unfairly favored Wike’s interests.

“The governor has acknowledged Wike’s contribution to his election but that doesn’t mean Fubara must follow Wike’s directives,” he argued. He also emphasized that Fubara would not compromise Rivers State’s resources to satisfy Wike’s interests.

Moreover, this statement comes amidst rising tensions between Wike and Fubara, with Wike openly stating that he would not support Fubara’s re-election bid.

According to Vanguard, Opunabo, however, dismissed Wike’s opposition as inconsequential to Fubara’s political future, stating that Rivers State citizens appreciate Fubara’s governance and will back his second term.

Ogoni representation for future leadership

Opunabo also supported calls for an Ogoni governor to succeed Fubara, acknowledging the ethnic group’s significant contribution to Rivers State.

“It’s fair that Ogoni produces the next governor after Fubara’s two terms,” he said, aligning his stance with growing demands for ethnic inclusivity in future leadership.