In a significant political development, the Ijaw Youth Council (IYC) Worldwide has thrown its weight behind Rivers State Governor Siminalayi Fubara, endorsing him for a second term in the 2027 general elections. The endorsement, announced on Sunday, 4th January 2026, signals a major consolidation of grassroots support for the governor amidst ongoing political realignments in the state.
Unwavering Support from the Ijaw Nation
The Council's President, Dr. Alaye Tari Theophilus, made the declaration following what he described as extensive consultations across the Ijaw nation and a thorough review of the political and developmental situation in Rivers State. In a strongly-worded statement, Theophilus affirmed the council's "total, unwavering, and unequivocal support" for Governor Fubara.
He praised the governor's ability to maintain focus and deliver effective governance despite what he termed "sustained political distractions and unwarranted interference." The council highlighted several areas of achievement under Fubara's administration, including infrastructure renewal, urban development, youth empowerment, job creation, and improvements in education and healthcare systems.
A Political Landscape Transformed
This endorsement comes on the heels of a major political shift. Governor Fubara officially defected from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) to the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) on 9th December 2025. This move ended a protracted feud with former Rivers Governor and current Federal Capital Territory Minister, Nyesom Wike, over control of the state's party structures.
The governor's defection, preceded by several members of the Rivers State House of Assembly also joining the APC, has effectively positioned Fubara as the leading figure for the ruling party in the state ahead of the 2027 polls. The IYC's endorsement is seen as a crucial step in solidifying his base within the influential Niger Delta region.
A Direct Challenge to Wike's Influence
The Ijaw Youth Council did not mince words in its criticism of Minister Nyesom Wike. The council's statement directly challenged any political arrangements promoted by Wike or his associates that seek to undermine the governor's authority.
"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," President Theophilus declared. He emphasized that Fubara's political patience should not be mistaken for weakness.
The council argued that Governor Fubara deserves the same political space and respect afforded to other national leaders like Senate President Godswill Akpabio and Senators Ifeanyi Okowa and Seriake Dickson, who were allowed to govern without excessive interference.
The Road to 2027 and a Call for Non-Interference
Speaking on behalf of what he claimed represents over 30 million Ijaw youths across the Niger Delta, Theophilus formally and unanimously endorsed Fubara for a second term. The council believes his continuity is essential for sustaining peace, unity, and development in Rivers State.
In a pointed message to the national leadership, the IYC called on the federal government and the APC hierarchy to respect the democratic will of the Rivers people and avoid meddling in the state's affairs. The council made it clear that the continued support of the vast Ijaw nation in the 2027 elections would be contingent on the adherence to democratic norms and respect for local governance structures.
This endorsement by a major ethnic youth body is a powerful indicator of shifting political loyalties in Rivers State. It sets the stage for a fiercely contested political landscape in the Niger Delta as the country moves closer to the 2027 general elections, with Governor Siminalayi Fubara now enjoying a fortified position among a key demographic.
