Former Media Aide to FCT Minister Encourages Governor Fubara to Pursue Second Term Without Relying on Federal Backing

Opunabo Inko-Tariah urges Governor Fubara to seek re-election in 2027, claiming he can win on "organic support" without needing President Tinubu's backing.

By: AXL Media

Published: Apr 25, 2026, 3:52 AM EDT

Source: Information for this report was sourced from Naija News

Calls for Immediate Political Declaration

Opunabo Inko,Tariah, a prominent public affairs analyst and former media advisor to the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, has publicly urged Governor Siminalayi Fubara to initiate his campaign for a second term. Speaking in Port Harcourt on Friday, Inko,Tariah expressed concern over the perceived lull in political activity as the next general election cycle approaches. He argued that the governor should capitalize on his current momentum and clarify his intentions to the electorate to ensure that the political process remains transparent and competitive.

The Concept of Organic Support

A central theme of Inko,Tariah’s argument is that Governor Fubara possesses a level of "organic support" that transcends traditional political machinery. He contended that the residents of Rivers State are "solidly behind" the governor, which would likely lead to a victory in a fair electoral environment even without a formal endorsement from President Bola Tinubu. This perspective suggests a shift in the state's political dynamics, where local popularity may be beginning to outweigh the influence of federal "nod" or godfatherism that has historically dominated the region's power transitions.

Allegations of State Capture and Imposition

The analyst also touched upon the challenges facing the state's democratic health, specifically citing "state capture" by powerful interests. Inko,Tariah lamented that many political parties and local politicians appear hesitant to prepare for the 2027 elections, attributing this to the influence of vested interests that seek to control the outcome through imposition rather than the will of the people. By urging Fubara to run, Inko,Tariah is positioning the governor as a potential check against these forces, provided the electoral process remains free from outside interference.