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 Federal Capital Territory Minister Nyesom Wike to secure President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s re‑election in 2027. The endorsement was announced during Wike’s “thank you” visit to Akuku‑Toru Local Government Area of Rivers State. Council Chairman Chief Ferdinand Alabraba said the elders have resolved to support the Renew Hope Family, also known as the “Rainbow Coalition,” which brings 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 benefited significantly from backing Tinubu in the 2023 presidential election, which helped stabilize the state politically and economically. The 86‑year‑old elder asserted that Wike’s political structure remains the most viable platform moving forward and 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, and credited the former governor with promoting ethnic unity in the state’s 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 the 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 response, thanked the people of the area for their support since 2014 and expressed gratitude for their embrace of 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 Elders Council’s endorsement of the Renewed Hope Family marks a significant development in the state’s political landscape, setting 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 influence the state’s political trajectory and its relationship with the federal government.