2027: Group urges Fubara to retain deputy

A socio-political group, The Enforcers of Good Governance, has urged Rivers State Governor, Siminalayi Fubara, to retain his deputy, Ngozi Nma Odu, as his running mate in the 2027 governorship election. In an open letter signed by its Founder and National Leader, Dr. Kingsley Ogu, the group expressed concern over what it described as “widespread […]

A socio-political group, The Enforcers of Good Governance, has urged Rivers State Governor, Siminalayi Fubara, to retain his deputy, Ngozi Nma Odu, as his running mate in the 2027 governorship election.

In an open letter signed by its Founder and National Leader, Dr. Kingsley Ogu, the group expressed concern over what it described as “widespread but unconfirmed reports” that the governor may be considering a replacement for his deputy.

“There have been widespread but unconfirmed reports circulating within political circles suggesting that Your Excellency may be considering replacing your Deputy Governor,” the group stated.

The group said that although the reports remain unofficial, “recent political developments have unfortunately lent credibility to such speculations.”

It, however, urged the governor to verify the claims independently and weigh the political implications of any such decision.

Highlighting the deputy governor’s role in the 2023 election, the group said her influence contributed significantly to support in the Orashi axis.

“This support was not incidental. It was significantly driven by the political influence, credibility, and acceptance of Professor Ngozi Nma Odu across the region,” the letter read.

The group also pointed to existing political structures built around the deputy governor, noting that its own network had mobilised support for the joint ticket during the last election.

It further described Odu as a public servant with “competence, integrity, and reputation,” adding that her emergence as deputy governorship candidate was widely seen as strategic.

On political loyalty, the group said the deputy governor remained supportive during challenging periods.

“At one of the most politically turbulent moments… she stood firmly by your side. Such loyalty is rare in politics,” it stated.

The group warned that any move that could create internal divisions might affect political stability ahead of the next election cycle.

“Creating avoidable cracks within your political structure at this delicate stage may hand unnecessary opportunities to political opponents,” the letter added.

While acknowledging that electoral decisions are strategic, the group cautioned against approaches it said could weaken grassroots support.

“Political victories are not secured solely through tactical substitutions or power calculations. Votes win elections,” it said.

The group maintained that its position was advisory and reaffirmed its support for the governor, urging him to prioritise “continuity, loyalty, inclusion, and strategic political balance.”