The Rivers Elders Council has aligned with the ‘Renewed Hope Family’, an initiative promoted by the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, aimed at securing President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s re-election in 2027.
The endorsement was announced on Tuesday during Wike’s “thank you” visit to Akuku-Toru Local Government Area of Rivers State.
Speaking at the event, Chairman of the Council, Chief Ferdinand Alabraba, said the elders had resolved to support the Renewed Hope Family, describing it as the right political direction ahead of the 2027 general election.
Alabraba explained that the initiative, also known as the ‘Rainbow Coalition’, has brought together members of the Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, and the All Progressives Congress, APC, in Rivers State to work collectively for Tinubu’s second-term bid.
The 86-year-old elder stated that Rivers State had benefited significantly from backing Tinubu in the 2023 presidential election, adding that the decision helped stabilise the state politically and economically.
According to him, Wike’s political structure remains the most viable platform moving forward.
“Let me assure you, Rivers people know where to go and the Renewed Hope Agenda is the way to go in 2027,” he said.
Alabraba also described Wike as an icon of modern Nigerian politics, noting that his leadership style appeals across generations. He further credited the former governor with promoting ethnic unity in Rivers State, which he described as a multi-ethnic society.
The Majority Leader of the Rivers State House of Assembly, Major Jack, praised Wike for developmental projects executed in Akuku-Toru during his tenure as governor.
“We followed you to support Tinubu and today we are enjoying the fruits of that decision and we will do the same in 2027,” he said.
Also speaking, the lawmaker representing Akuku-Toru Constituency, Lolo Opuende, declared the area’s loyalty to Wike’s political direction.
“In 2027, we will stand by you and support your renewed hope family, to return Tinubu for a second term,” he said.
Chairman of Akuku-Toru Local Government Council, Aboiya-a Bob-Fubara, commended Wike for his humility and inclusive leadership, saying the visit would further strengthen grassroots governance.
Bob-Fubara assured the minister of the council’s continued support and loyalty, noting that collaboration with Wike would bring development and prosperity to the local government and the state.
In his response, Wike said the visit was meant to appreciate the people of the area for their support since 2014 when he declared his intention to contest the governorship of Rivers State.
He thanked them for embracing the Rainbow Coalition and for mobilising support for Tinubu’s re-election beyond party lines.
“This is the only state where the two major political parties are working together to return Tinubu in 2027.
“This rainbow coalition is not in any state other than Rivers and that is why we are no longer talking about party politics but renewed hope,” he said.
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