The governorship candidate of the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC) in Rivers State, Blessing Fubara, has dismissed claims that he is being sponsored by political godfathers or acting on behalf of his brother, Governor Siminalayi Fubara, insisting that his political ambition is driven solely by his vision for the state.
Speaking during an interview on Arise Television’s Prime Time programme on Friday, Fubara said he has no political benefactor and relies only on divine guidance in his quest to lead Rivers State.
“I don’t have a godfather but I have God the Father,” he said. “If my ambition were based on the assumptions being made, it would suggest that I lack a clear vision and purpose for what I am pursuing.”
The NDC candidate stressed that he and the Rivers State governor hold different political beliefs and approaches, despite being brothers. According to him, his decision to contest the governorship is independent and not an extension of any political project linked to Governor Fubara.
He noted that the political crisis in Rivers State has generated numerous narratives aimed at shaping public perception but maintained that his focus remains on addressing the challenges facing the state.
“My brother, Nigerians, and indeed the wider world witnessed what happened between him and his party. We have different political ideologies and individual perspectives,” he said.
Describing the current situation in Rivers as a difficult period, Fubara said his campaign is centered on what he called the rescue of the state from its political and governance challenges.
“It’s a trying moment for us in Rivers State. There are all sorts of narratives, but we are focused, with our eyes on the ball, ensuring that the soul of Rivers State is rescued,” he added.
Blessing Fubara formally entered the 2027 governorship race in May 2026 after obtaining the NDC’s expression of interest and nomination forms.
His emergence comes amid the prolonged political rift in Rivers State involving Governor Siminalayi Fubara and his predecessor, the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike. The dispute has triggered impeachment threats, legislative divisions, and a series of legal confrontations.
The development also follows Governor Fubara’s recent withdrawal from the All Progressives Congress (APC) governorship primaries, with Blessing Fubara announcing his candidacy shortly afterward.
