Mixed reactions have continued to trail political developments in Rivers State, following the withdrawal of key aspirants from the governorship race. Some supporters of Governor Siminalayi Fubara expressed disappointment over his decision to withdraw from the contest, questioning why he encouraged loyalists to align with him despite what they described as his inability to confront the political influence of the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike.
Others, particularly supporters of Wike, were seen celebrating the development, praising the minister's political strength and insisting that "no one can reap where he did not sow." In several viral videos circulating online, some obviously aggrieved supporters of Fubara alleged that they had been abandoned and left without hope amid the unfolding political crisis.
Subdued Mood in Rivers State
The mood across Rivers State on Thursday was largely subdued. Fubara, alongside businessman Tonye Cole and Wike ally George Kelly, had in separate statements announced their withdrawal from the governorship race.
ADC Criticizes APC
Meanwhile, the Rivers State chapter of the African Democratic Congress (ADC) said the crisis rocking the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC), particularly in Rivers State, reflected growing dissatisfaction among Nigerians. Reacting to the wave of withdrawals from the APC governorship primaries by Fubara, Cole and Dr. Dax George Kelly on Wednesday night, the Rivers State Chairman of the ADC, Chukwudi Dimkpa, described the situation as an internal affair of the APC.
He, however, noted that the development underscored "the growing dissatisfaction, uncertainty and instability within the ruling political structure, both in Rivers State and across the country."
ADC's Position
Dimkpa said: "For us in the ADC, and indeed for other opposition parties, the lesson is not to celebrate the challenges of others, but to recognise that Nigerians are yearning for a credible, stable and people-oriented alternative capable of restoring confidence in governance and democratic leadership."
According to him, political consciousness among citizens is increasing daily, with Nigerians paying closer attention to issues of internal democracy, transparency, inclusiveness and leadership sincerity. "So yes, developments such as these naturally create political openings for opposition parties, especially those that are organised, disciplined and genuinely connected to the aspirations of the people. But beyond leverage, our focus in ADC is to continue strengthening our structures across the 23 local government areas, mobilising credible leadership and presenting practical solutions that resonate with the everyday realities of Rivers people and Nigerians at large," he said.
Desire for Leadership
The ADC chairman added that Rivers people were tired of prolonged political conflict and desired purposeful leadership, economic direction, improved security, employment opportunities and renewed hope for the future. He maintained that the ADC remained committed to providing a viable alternative and called on Rivers people and Nigerians generally to support the party, which he said was prepared to offer responsible leadership.
