The governorship candidate of the National Democratic Congress in Rivers State, Sir Blessing Fubara, has denied claims suggesting that he entered into any form of agreement with the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, ahead of the 2027 elections.
Fubara has recently faced allegations from some political circles accusing him of being a placeholder for his younger brother, Sir Siminalayi Fubara, claims he has firmly rejected. Others have also suggested that he is playing political games within the NDC structure, while the governorship ticket continues to draw interest from other contenders, including Chief Sumo Lulu Briggs.
In a statement addressing the controversy, Fubara said his call for dialogue and reconciliation should not be mistaken for political compromise. He maintained that governing a diverse state like Rivers requires openness and engagement rather than hostility and exclusion.
He stressed that there is no hidden arrangement with Wike or any other political figure, insisting that his position has remained consistent.
“I have taken note of the publication by the Rivers Youth Media Team alleging that my recent comments on reconciliation amount to a secret political arrangement with former Governor Nyesom Wike,” he said.
He added that there is no deal, no negotiation, and no agreement of any kind with Wike or anyone else that undermines the independence of the National Democratic Congress or the mandate of Rivers people.
According to him, Rivers State has endured years of political tension, institutional disagreements, and economic challenges, all of which have placed heavy pressure on ordinary citizens. He noted that the people often suffer the consequences when leaders choose conflict over dialogue.
Fubara referenced global examples of reconciliation, pointing to Nelson Mandela’s ability to forgive and engage with former adversaries as an example of leadership focused on healing and progress rather than division.
He explained that if given the mandate to lead, he would engage all key stakeholders in the state regardless of political affiliation. This, he said, would include past office holders, traditional rulers, civil society groups, youth and women organisations, labour bodies, the private sector, and opposition parties, all in the interest of peace, stability, security, and economic recovery.
He warned against what he described as deliberate attempts to twist his stance on reconciliation, saying such narratives were either based on misunderstanding or politically motivated distortion. He urged that politics in Rivers State should be centered on ideas and solutions rather than fear and conspiracy theories.
Fubara further reiterated that the National Democratic Congress remains committed to transparency, internal democracy, and people driven leadership. He said the party’s vision cannot be controlled or manipulated by any individual or interest group.
He also called on young people and political actors across the state to reduce the rising tension in public discussions, noting that elections should be about competence and vision rather than hate or division.
