In a notable display of political solidarity, key power brokers and stakeholders in Rivers State gathered in Abonnema on Saturday night to formally reaffirm their unwavering allegiance to the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Chief Dr Nyesom Ezenwo Wike, and the President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, Bola Ahmed Tinubu.
The high-level consultative meeting, held at the Ogoin-Ama residence of the Majority Leader of the Rivers State House of Assembly, Hon. Alabo Major Jack, served as a platform for local leaders to consolidate their alignment with the “Renewed Hope” agenda of the central government.
The gathering drew a significant contingent of influential figures from the Akuku-Toru Local Government Area. Amongst the prominent attendees were:
- Hon. Alabo Major Jack: Majority Leader of the Rivers State House of Assembly.
- Rt. Hon. Aboiya-a Bob-Fubara: Executive Chairman of Akuku-Toru Local Government Council.
- Hon. Mrs Tokini Jack Bob-Fubara: Wife of the Executive Chairman.
In a collective declaration, the Council Chairman and his cabinet of appointees pledged their total support to Chief Wike and President Tinubu, citing the need for strategic partnership to ensure the continued development of the Niger Delta region.
Speaking during the evening’s proceedings, Hon. Alabo Major Jack underscored that loyalty remains the cornerstone of effective governance and political stability. He noted that the gathering was not merely symbolic but a deliberate effort to ensure that the grassroots leadership remains in lockstep with the Minister and the President.
“Loyalty is a virtue, and we stand firmly with our leaders as they steer the nation toward greater heights,” the Majority Leader remarked. “Our commitment to this path is total, and we are focused on working collaboratively to achieve progress for our people.”
The meeting in Abonnema occurs against a backdrop of shifting political sands within Rivers State. By publicly aligning with the FCT Minister and the President, these stakeholders have signaled their rejection of any fragmentation within the state’s political apparatus.
The event reinforces the narrative that despite internal state-level tensions, a significant and influential bloc of the Rivers State leadership remains tethered to the “Wike Structure,” which continues to serve as a vital conduit to the Presidency in Abuja. Analysts suggest that such gatherings are essential for maintaining organisational discipline and ensuring that local government administrations remain focused on the federal government’s broader developmental objectives.
As the political landscape in Rivers State continues to evolve, the Abonnema declaration serves as a potent reminder of the enduring influence of Chief Nyesom Wike and the strategic importance of Rivers State in President Tinubu’s national coalition. The stakeholders concluded the meeting with a resolve to intensify mobilisation efforts in support of the administration’s policies.