The Ijaw Youth Council (IYC) has thrown its weight behind Rivers State Governor, Siminalayi Fubara, endorsing him for a second term in office ahead of the 2027 general elections.
In a statement released on Sunday, IYC President, Theophilus Alaye, said the endorsement followed extensive consultations across the Ijaw nation and a detailed evaluation of the state’s political dynamics and development agenda.
Alaye stated that despite political distractions and interference, Governor Fubara has remained focused and committed to governance.
“Governor Fubara embodies stability, maturity, and responsible leadership at a crucial moment in Rivers State’s history,” the IYC leader said.
The Council categorically rejected any political arrangements led by the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, warning that such actions undermine the constitutional authority of the governor.
“The Ijaw Youth Council Worldwide categorically states that it does not recognise, accept, or align with any political arrangements or agreements being promoted by the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, or any of his proxies, that seek to undermine the authority or constitutional mandate of the Governor of Rivers State,” Alaye declared.
The group commended Fubara’s people-centred development initiatives, noting progress in infrastructure renewal, urban development, youth empowerment, education, healthcare, peacebuilding, and governance reforms.
It emphasised that the patience of the Ijaw people should not be mistaken for weakness.
Drawing comparisons with national leaders such as Senate President Godswill Akpabio, former Delta State Governor Ifeanyi Okowa, and Senator Seriake Dickson, the IYC said Fubara deserves the same space and respect to govern effectively.
“On behalf of over 30 million Ijaw youths across the Niger Delta, we hereby formally and unanimously endorse Governor Siminalayi Fubara for a second term in 2027. We believe his continuity in office is vital to sustaining peace, unity, and development in Rivers State,” the statement added.
The Council warned the Federal Government and the APC that the support of the Ijaw nation would depend on their respect for the will of the Rivers people.
“If the Federal Government and the leadership of the All Progressives Congress desire the support of the Ijaw Nation in 2027, then respect for the will of the Rivers people and non-interference in the affairs of the state must be upheld,” the IYC president warned.