Joel Ajayi
Ambassador Blessing Fubara Junior has officially declared his intention to contest the Rivers State governorship election, promising to restore economic prosperity, political stability, and peace in the state if elected.
Speaking during the Nigerian Democratic Congress (NDC) party primaries, Fubara described himself as a “ready, competent, and energetic” candidate committed to rebuilding Rivers State and restoring its lost glory.
According to him, Rivers people have suffered economic hardship, loss of opportunities, and declining investments, stressing the need for collective action to reposition the state.
“I am offering myself to restore the soul of Nigeria and restore the soul of Rivers State,” he said.
Fubara called for unity among residents across political parties, ethnic groups, and interests to “take back the state” and return Rivers to its status as the “treasure base of the nation.”
He lamented what he described as the current condition of the state, contrasting it with its previous reputation as one of Nigeria’s leading economic hubs.
“Today, we see a Rivers State that is distressed. Today, we see a Rivers State that is shortchanged. Today, we see a Rivers State that almost looks like a conquered state. But we are not a conquered people,” he stated.
The governorship aspirant urged supporters across the 23 local government areas of the state to participate actively in the NDC primaries, saying the process was critical to reclaiming the future of Rivers State.
Fubara also claimed to enjoy widespread support across the state, noting that millions of his supporters are registered members of the NDC.
On power rotation, the aspirant pledged to serve only one four-year term in line with the state’s zoning arrangement, which he said favours the Rivers South-East Senatorial District completing its expected eight-year tenure.
“It is important for us to understand that altering the senatorial rotation of leadership in the state will set a dangerous precedent,” he said.
He added that after completing his tenure, he would support the emergence of a candidate from the next senatorial district in line with the rotation principle.
Fubara further assured Rivers people that he possesses the experience, competence, and leadership capacity needed to restore peace, attract investment, and drive development across the state.
He called on political stakeholders and citizens to support what he described as a people-driven movement aimed at rebuilding a prosperous and progressive Rivers State.
The NDC primaries are currently ongoing across the country ahead of the next round of governorship elections.
