Fresh political undercurrents have emerged in Rivers State following the circulation of a list of 32 individuals reportedly endorsed to contest the State House of Assembly elections on the platform of loyalists of Governor Siminalayi Fubara.
Though there has been no official confirmation from Government House, the development has stirred excitement across political circles, with supporters interpreting the move as a strategic step by the governor to consolidate his political base ahead of the 2027 general elections.
The list, which has gained traction among party stakeholders and grassroots mobilisers, cuts across various state constituencies, including Ahoada West, Bonny, Opobo/Nkoro, Akuku-Toru I and II, Ahoada East I and II, Abua/Odual, Ogba/Egbema/Ndoni I and II, Ikwerre, Emohua, Gokana, and Port Harcourt I, II and III, among others.
Analysts say the spread reflects a deliberate attempt to ensure wide political coverage and inclusivity, while positioning loyalists in key legislative districts.
Among those named are Sokari Goodboy Sokari (Ahoada West), Victor Oko Jumbo (Bonny), Orubienimigha Adolphus Timothy (Opobo/Nkoro), Tonye Briggs Oniyide (Akuku-Toru I), Samuel Reginald Sokari (Akuku-Toru II), and Chime Egwuma Ezebalike (Ahoada East II). Others include Emejim Wisdom Chiemele (Ahoada East I), Vincent Reuben Obu (Abua/Odual), Amua Isioma Henry (Ogba/Egbema/Ndoni I), and Nnwoziri Chukwuemeka (Ikwerre).
Also on the list are Fugbara Goodluck Ohaka (Emohua), Kpeden Kenneth (Gokana), Bobby Frank Abayomi (Port Harcourt I), Weche Ndubuisi Raymond (Port Harcourt III), Onyema Loveday Hechiaru (Omuma), Berebupakabo Isaac Sekibo (Ogu/Bolo), Luke Mobene Eneriene (Andoni), Bellor Kingsley Waite (Eleme), and Oba Fred Ajubolaka (Okrika).
The list further includes Claudius Princewill (Asari-Toru I), Cline Tamunodiepriye Abdurrazaq (Port Harcourt II), Chijioke Kemziunm Ihunwo (Obio/Akpor I), Chigozie Emem (Etche II), Morris Prince Lelesi (Khana I), Jolly Benjamin Ngbor (Tai), Prince Achor (Obio/Akpor II), Tyger Enemeniya Dumo (Degema), Ideye Granville (Asari-Toru II), Gift Okere (Oyigbo), Nwankwoala Paul (Etche I), Prince Lezina Ngbor (Khana II), and Chris Okey Ochije (Ogba/Egbema/Ndoni II).
Political watchers believe the emergence of the list—whether formalised or not—signals an early effort to shape the composition of the next legislature in a manner that aligns with the governor’s policy direction.
“This is more than just a list; it is a possible blueprint for legislative stability,” a Port Harcourt-based political analyst said. “Governors often seek a cooperative House to drive their agenda, and this appears to be part of that calculation.”
Supporters of the governor have welcomed the development, describing it as a sign of strategic foresight. Many argue that a supportive legislature would enhance policy execution, reduce political friction, and fast-track development projects across the state.
There is also a growing perception among loyalists that the move strengthens speculation about Fubara’s intention to seek a second term in office. By building a network of aligned lawmakers, they contend, the governor could secure both political continuity and institutional backing for his programmes.
However, critics caution that such early endorsements—if confirmed—could deepen intra-party tensions, particularly in a state where political alignments remain fluid and often contentious.
As of press time, officials of the Rivers State Government and the ruling party have yet to issue a formal statement on the authenticity of the list.
Nonetheless, its circulation has already injected fresh momentum into the state’s political landscape, setting the stage for what promises to be an intense pre-election season.
