The All Progressives Congress (APC) in Rivers State, through its Rainbow Coalition's consensus arrangement, produced 32 candidates for the House of Assembly primary elections held yesterday. Party members turned out in large numbers across various state constituencies to affirm the candidacy of their agreed aspirants in a peaceful exercise. There were no disagreements as party officials conducted the events, which many stakeholders described as unique.
Exclusion of Fubara's Loyalists
However, loyalists of Rivers State Governor Siminalayi Fubara were reportedly missing from the entire arrangement. Among those excluded from the final list were former factional Speaker Victor Oko-Jumbo and former Chairman of Obio/Akpor Local Council Chijioke Ihunwo, both considered key allies of the governor during the political crisis that rocked the state.
Asari-Toru Constituencies
In Asari-Toru Constituencies 1 and 2, where Tekenari Granville and Enemi Alabo George ran unopposed, the Chief Press Secretary of the council, Mrs. Winnie Morganson, stated that party members reaffirmed their unwavering commitment to the democratic principles of the APC. She noted that the turnout was massive, reflecting the unity, discipline, and political strength that have continued to distinguish the APC chapter as a formidable pillar of support for the party's growth, stability, and success in Rivers. “The peaceful and orderly conduct witnessed throughout the exercise also highlighted the maturity, loyalty, and shared vision of members towards sustaining progressive leadership and deepening internal democracy within the party,” she said.
Bonny Local Council
Similar reports were received from other local councils, particularly in Bonny, where party members turned the event into a carnival while affirming Jumbo Soparagha as their only candidate.
Petition and Final List
Following the disqualification of Fubara's men, they petitioned the APC screening appeal committee headed by Abdul Mahmud. The panel promised to forward its report to the party's National Secretariat, but no official outcome has been communicated. However, the final list released by the party cleared the Deputy Speaker of the Rivers State House of Assembly, Dumle Maol; House Leader, Major Jack; and 34 other aspirants believed to be loyal to the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, to contest seats in the 32-member Assembly. APC Publicity Secretary in the state, Chibuike Ikenga, in a statement on Tuesday night, said the final list emanated from the party's National Secretariat. He urged aspirants to verify their status at the party's state secretariat in Port Harcourt.
