The Rivers State Governor, Sir Siminalayi Fubara, received a heroic and rousing welcome on Thursday as he attended his first Progressive Governors Forum meeting in Abuja following his recent defection to the All Progressives Congress, APC.
Truth Live News International reports that Governor Fubara was the centre of attention as he arrived at the meeting, marking his debut among APC governors as a newly admitted member of the ruling party. His presence drew warm receptions from colleagues across the country, many of whom openly expressed solidarity and goodwill.
Before the meeting, Governor Fubara paid a surprise visit to the APC National Secretariat in Abuja, where he held discussions with top party officials. He was also warmly received by the Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Mr Festus Keyamo SAN, who welcomed him into the party fold.
Sources within the Progressive Governors Forum disclosed to Truth Live News that Governor Fubara is enjoying strong backing from his APC colleagues, particularly governors from the Northern part of the country. This support, according to insiders, is aimed at shielding him from political pressure linked to his estranged political godfather, Nyesom Wike, who currently serves as Minister of the Federal Capital Territory.
A media aide to one of the Northern governors, who spoke to Truth Live News International correspondent in a telephone interview from London, confirmed the development.
“I can tell you that His Excellency Governor Fubara was given a resounding welcome into the APC family by my principal and other governors,” the aide said. “They have collectively vowed to stand by him and protect him against intimidation from his estranged godfather, Wike.”
The source further revealed that concerns had been raised at the highest levels over what several governors reportedly described as Wike’s overbearing political style.
“In fact, the President has been properly advised to accord Governor Fubara the respect he deserves and to work constructively with him. There is confidence that Fubara will deliver Rivers State for the party, and he will receive all the federal support required to succeed,” the source added, while pleading anonymity.
It will be recalled that Governor Fubara was previously suspended from office for six months at the height of the political crisis between him and his predecessor. The situation culminated in President Bola Ahmed Tinubu declaring a state of emergency in Rivers State, a move that drew national attention and intense political debate.
With his formal integration into the APC leadership structure now underway, political observers say Governor Fubara’s growing acceptance among progressive governors could significantly reshape the political dynamics in Rivers State and beyond.