Rivers State Governor, Sir Siminalayi Fubara, has positioned his loyalists to contest the All Progressives Congress (APC) House of Assembly primary elections.

It was gathered at the weekend that many of the governor’s frontline supporters had collected nomination and expression of interest forms before the deadline for the primaries.

Although Fubara has not formally declared his intention to run for re-election, sources said he remains interested in a second term.

Some political observers also said the outcome of the House of Assembly primary could shape the governor’s second-term calculations.

Those who obtained the forms are considered key figures in Fubara’s camp who played prominent roles during the political crisis that rocked the state.

Among them are former members of the dissolved factional House of Assembly and supporters whose elections as local government chairmen were nullified by the Supreme Court judgment that resolved the crisis.

Prominent figures in the camp who displayed their forms include Chijoke Ihunwo, who was removed by the Supreme Court as Chairman of Obio-Akpor Local Government Area, and Victor Oko-Jumbo, who led the annulled factional House of Assembly during the crisis.

There are strong indications that the development could trigger renewed tensions between Fubara’s camp and the Rainbow Coalition led by the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Chief Nyesom Wike.

Oko-Jumbo confirmed that he obtained the form to seek a second term as a member representing Bonny Constituency in the Rivers State House of Assembly.

He commended President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for his commitment to equity, fairness, and due process.

Oko-Jumbo also praised Governor Fubara for his guidance, support, and commitment to the interests of the common man and to the state’s unity and progress.

“In my less than three years as a state assembly member, we already have evident legacies of legislative impact, infrastructural delivery, educational support, business grants and strategic empowerment, all for the good of Bonny people and Rivers State at large,” he said.

“As we navigate this season, I remain committed to the ideals of impactful service, accountability and balanced development, with renewed resolve to stand for Bonny and defend its interests.”

In a statement, Ihunwo told residents of the Obio-Akpor Local Government Area that he had picked a form to contest for a seat in Constituency 1 of the Rivers State House of Assembly.

He said the move was part of his commitment to public service and his resolve to contribute meaningfully to the growth, development and well-being of his constituency.

“It is a decision inspired by my deep connection with our people, a clear understanding of our collective challenges, and a strong desire to provide purposeful, responsive and people-oriented representation at the State Assembly,” he said.

Ihunwo pledged to remain committed to ongoing engagement with stakeholders, community leaders, party faithful, youth, women, and residents of Obio-Akpor.

“Together, we will build a more inclusive, progressive and prosperous constituency where the voices of the people are heard and their needs adequately addressed,” he said.

He added that growing support and endorsements from groups and individuals had strengthened his determination to serve with integrity, transparency and dedication.

“My focus will remain on promoting policies and initiatives that will drive sustainable development, empower our youths, improve infrastructure, and enhance the quality of life for all,” he said.

“I humbly seek your continued support, prayers and cooperation as we move forward together in this journey of service and transformation.”(The Nation)

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