Fubara Announces Key PDP Figures Now Backing President Tinubu, Declares 2026 “Year of Complete Liberation” for Rivers State

Rivers State Governor Siminalayi Fubara has revealed that several prominent former leaders of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), all previously aligned with former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, have resolved to support President Bola Ahmed Tinubu. The shift marks a significant political realignment in Rivers State and, potentially, across the national landscape.

Governor Fubara made the announcement on Thursday during the Rivers State Government’s New Year banquet at the Banquet Hall of Government House in Port Harcourt. Among those who attended — and whose presence he described as “dispelling all forms of lies and blackmail” — were former PDP national chairman Uche Secondus, former deputy speaker of the House of Representatives Austin Opara, former Rivers governor Celestine Omehia, and former Minister of Transport Abiye Sekibo.

According to Fubara, their attendance and open support debunked insinuations that he was fraternising with political actors opposed to President Tinubu’s interests. Instead, he said, their renewed alignment with the President reaffirmed the unity and direction of political leadership in the state.

The governor emphasised that he remains unmoved by political pressures, insisting that his confidence stems from his trust in God. He declared that the administration’s mission in Rivers State would be fully achieved through faith, resilience and strategic governance.

Addressing claims that he was “barking” amid political turbulence, Fubara dismissed such suggestions, saying he clearly understands the complexities of Rivers politics. Borrowing from Julius Caesar, he stated that “only those without understanding resort to barking,” noting that he had put in place mechanisms to navigate the political landscape effectively.

Fubara described 2026 as the year that would usher in “complete liberation” for Rivers State — a period he said would mark the fulfilment of his administration’s goals and vindicate those who have stood by him through ongoing political challenges.

Reflecting on his administration’s trials, the governor said the obstacles he could not confront directly had ultimately strengthened his resolve. He maintained that he had “lost nothing,” expressing confidence that everything would be recovered and restored in due time.

Reiterating his moral stance, the governor assured that his administration would not coerce anyone into wrongdoing. He declared that he harboured no fear and that, when necessary, “every required bridge will be crossed.”

The event flagged a moment of renewed political positioning in Rivers State as Fubara continues to navigate tensions and build alliances ahead of the unfolding political year.