Rivers Elders Back Tinubu’s Re-election Bid

The Rivers Elders Council has thrown its weight behind the ‘Renewed Hope Family’, an initiative championed by Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, aimed at securing President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s re-election in 2027. This endorsement was announced during Wike’s “thank you” visit to Akuku-Toru Local Government Area of Rivers State.

According to Chairman of the Council, Chief Ferdinand Alabraba, the elders have resolved to support the Renewed Hope Family, which is also known as the ‘Rainbow Coalition’. This initiative has brought together members of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Rivers State to work collectively for Tinubu’s second-term bid. Alabraba noted that Rivers State has benefited significantly from backing Tinubu in the 2023 presidential election, which helped stabilize the state politically and economically.

The 86-year-old elder stated that Wike’s political structure remains the most viable platform moving forward, adding that the decision to support Tinubu has yielded positive results. He described Wike as an icon of modern Nigerian politics, whose leadership style appeals across generations. Alabraba also credited the former governor with promoting ethnic unity in Rivers State, a multi-ethnic society.

Major Jack, the Majority Leader of the Rivers State House of Assembly, praised Wike for developmental projects executed in Akuku-Toru during his tenure as governor. Lawmaker Lolo Opuende declared the area’s loyalty to Wike’s political direction, stating that they will support his Renewed Hope Family to return Tinubu for a second term in 2027.

Chairman of Akuku-Toru Local Government Council, Aboiya-a Bob-Fubara, commended Wike for his humility and inclusive leadership, saying the visit would further strengthen grassroots governance. Wike, in his response, appreciated the people of the area for their support since 2014 and thanked them for embracing the Rainbow Coalition. He noted that the collaboration between the two major political parties in Rivers State is unique and will bring development and prosperity to the local government and the state.

The endorsement of the Renewed Hope Family by the Rivers Elders Council signifies a significant development in the state’s political landscape, as it sets the stage for a united front in support of Tinubu’s re-election bid. With the 2027 general election on the horizon, the move is expected to have implications for the state’s political trajectory and its relationships with the federal government.