The Ogoni and Oyigbo Peoples Assembly, a political coalition representing five Local Government Areas in Rivers State, has reaffirmed its unwavering support for the administration of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and called for his second term bid in 2027. The assembly, which met to discuss the future of Rivers State politics, also pledged total loyalty to the former governor of Rivers State and current Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Chief Nyesom Wike, praising his leadership and achievements.
Speaking at the gathering, Senator Barry Mpigi highlighted the assembly’s key demands, emphasizing the need for the Rivers Southeast Senatorial District’s upland to produce the next governor in 2027. Mpigi recalled Wike’s decision to support Sim Fubara from Opobo, a smaller Local Government Area, in the last election. While the assembly stood by this decision, they now insist it is time for their region to lead the state. They stressed the importance of loyalty to the party and expressed readiness to push forward in securing this goal.
The assembly also expressed deep gratitude to President Tinubu for his efforts in reviving critical infrastructure projects across Nigeria. They urged him to run for a second term, believing that his administration’s progress would benefit the region, particularly with projects like the Onne road expansion underway. Mpigi challenged political figures who secretly visit the Presidential Villa to openly declare their support for Tinubu.
During the meeting, the assembly criticized Chief Edwin Clarke for promoting division by favoring Ijaw interests over the Ogoni and Oyigbo people. The assembly called on Clarke to retract his negative comments about Wike and focus on issues within his home state of Delta. They condemned his interference in Rivers State’s affairs, accusing him of sowing discord and fuelling tensions.
Other political leaders, including Ambassador Desmond Akawor, Hon. Victor Giadom, and Senator Magnus Abe, emphasized the importance of unity and peace among the various ethnic groups in Rivers State. They encouraged collaboration and warned against divisive politics, stressing that only through collective efforts could the state’s political and economic goals be realized.
The assembly concluded with a firm message: the Ogoni and Oyigbo peoples are ready to fight for their rightful place in Rivers State politics. They vowed to push for an inclusive government that empowers their communities and ensures the next governor comes from their zone, urging unity and cooperation among all political actors to secure the state’s future.
