The All Progressives Congress (APC) in Rivers State has expressed its intention to collaborate with Governor Siminalayi Fubara upon his expected reinstatement on September 18. The party, however, made it clear that it would maintain a critical stance regarding governance matters.
During a press conference in Port Harcourt on Tuesday, APC State Chairman Chief Tony Okocha stated that the party aims to enhance its membership while providing constructive feedback on Fubara’s administration once he resumes office. “The governor, who was previously suspended, will return on September 18, and the APC will work alongside him,” Okocha affirmed. “Nonetheless, this does not exempt him from scrutiny; we will voice our concerns if he missteps. Local government chairmen will collaborate with him, but we will oppose any harmful policies.”
Okocha characterized the recent local government elections as a precursor to the upcoming 2027 general elections. He revealed that the APC strategically opted not to contest in areas dominated by the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), such as Obio/Akpor, Port Harcourt City, and Ogba/Egbema/Ndoni LGAs, instead concentrating on regions where the party has a stronger foothold. “Rivers State has traditionally been a PDP stronghold,” he explained, outlining the party’s tactical decision-making.
The APC chairman also highlighted the party’s increasing influence, contrasting its position in the 2023 elections with its current status. “In 2023, the APC in Rivers State was struggling; now we are making significant strides,” he remarked, expressing optimism about the party’s growth and its support for President Bola Tinubu’s re-election bid in 2027.
Additionally, Okocha criticized the PDP, claiming it is in disarray, with many members defecting to the APC. He invited PDP members, including Federal Capital Territory Minister Nyesom Wike, to join the APC to foster “peace.”
Fubara’s reinstatement follows his suspension by President Tinubu on March 18, amid rising political unrest and attacks on oil facilities by militants allegedly associated with the governor. In the interim, former Chief of Naval Staff Vice Admiral Ibok-Ete Ibas (retd.) served as the state administrator for a six-month term.
Recently, Minister Wike indicated that the path was now clear for Fubara’s return to office during a media interaction after casting his vote in the local government elections.
