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Pomp As Amaechi Campaign Train Enters Isiokpo

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Perhaps nothing else can demonstrate love more than the people of Ikwerre land in Rivers State trooping out on Tuesday in thousands to welcome their illustrious son, Governor Chuibuike Rotimi Amaechi and the re-election Campaign train into the ancient Kingdom of Isiokpo.

He chose Isiokpo, the Ancient Kingdom of Ikwerre land to flag-off his Re-Election Campaign because according to the director-general of his campaign organisation Chief Nyeson Nwike the local government headquarters, is the governor primary constituency, where he received the mandate to govern Rivers State on Oct 26, 2007.

And if the obviously resounding success of the campaign rally in terms of the Unprecedented multitudes that beseiged the Isiokpo modern primary school field that day in solidarity with the governor were to be synonymous with electoral success, then Amaechi would simply walk tall in anticipation of victory at the 2011 governorship  election.

The overwhelming turn out of People Democratic Party (PDP) supporters and the people of Ikwerre tingled with the anticipation of this victory perhaps will yield to them new vistas and new surprises. While reflecting on past experiences, Hon. Chuibuike Amaechi said: “I am not just a candidate of the People Democratic Party (PDP) but also the governor of Rivers State”.

He was on mounting the podium, and based on his past ugly experience perhaps about the ‘K’ Leg’ syndrome began his opening address with a shorus: “you are the lord, that is your name, you will never share Your Glory with anyone….” And in quick succession, he prophetically added:

“I told God don’t let the rain fall  because your detractors would say, Governor Amaechi’s campaign train and supporters were chased away from Isiokpo by heavy rain storm”.

Now, he said: “No rain, it means God has answered our prayer and fasting.” “While acknowledging all the solidarity messages from a notable former governor and big wigs of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Governor Amaechi re-emphasised his campaign slogan, when he said: “Our campaign is based on issues not on gossips or personality.”

“My advice is: “if you want to serve the people, put your achievement and ideas on the table, let them examine your record, If you have none, don’t deceive the people.” In his word: “I will no longer give promises but uphold accountability, transparency and sustenance of good governance in the state, If re-elected.” He further elaborated:

“I will no longer give promises but to tell you what I have done with public money,”.

To the Ikwerre people he said: “challenge those who come to hold similar campaign rally here, to tell you what they have done for Ikwerre local government area.” He said: the money my administration hold is your money, so feel free to petition any commissioner who have enriched himself with public money.”

On employment he said: “how else can you create employment except through the massive on- going infrastructural developmental projects embarked upon by my administration in the state.” Again on issue of security, he was quick to react this way: “the issue is over blown, insisting that, before now, the people of the state cannot sleep with their two eyes closed.” He further said:

“Those in Abuja cannot come home because of insecurity created by them, but today, they can come home to campaign and hold political party meetings at night.”

In his words: “Those in Abuja organised the Ateke groups, but today we assure the people that PDP would chase out criminals in their hide-out; so that you will sleep with your two eyes close.”

When other candidates come; he said: “challenged them, what they have provided  in Ikwerre local government area.”

“For out of the 19 modern Primary Schools Under Construction in Ikwerre local government area, 13 have been completed”, In addition, “several health centres have already been completed and communities road net work”. And the mammoth crowd was quick to acknowledge with loud ovation and confidence voice vote of “yes”, to the admiration of party big-wigs present at the rally.

In challenging his political opponents, Governor Amaechi said: “Don’t Blame your non-performance on the fact that you were not governors, but I was a speaker, when I influenced the construction of several rural roads in Ikwerre local government areas”. Finally, Amaechi asserted that a vote for him in 2011 was equal to a vote for senator Sekibo George and other candidates on the platform of the Umbrella symbol of PDP.”

While urging Ikwerre local government area to deliver 100 per cent vote cast for President Goodluck Jonathan/Nnamadi Sambo ticket, “vote for me too, because I am an Ikwerre son, Rivers Son, so vote for me.”

However, he said: “wait for INEC to count the vote at the polling station and down load the number of your votes, otherwise, they would rig you, out then, leave the rest for us in Port Harcourt.”

Earlier before Party flags were handed-over to candidates to fly through their constituencies by the state PDP Chairman, Chief Godfrey Ake, Party big-wigs namely, Chief Ombo Isokairari, Prince Emma Anyanwu, the PDP national publicity secretary, Uche Secundus, and former governor, of old Rivers State, Chief Rufus Ada George had eulogies the qualities of Rt. Hon. Chuibuike Rotimi Amaechi and why he deserved the mandate of the people for 2nd term.

Chief Rufus Ada George the former governor of old Rivers State recalled how Amaechi single handedly introduced him to Chief Maxwell Amadi, late Ofordile and Chief Ajaero (all Ikwerre sons) to assist in the running of the administration of the state.

Chief George said: it was Governor Amaechi that introduced Sir Celestine Omeha and pleaded that Celestine should be made a commissioner instead of him in the state Executive Council.

He further described Amaechi who was special Assistant on Student Affair as a dedicated, transparent and committed student leader.

“One good turn deserved another, so Amaechi should be given another term, to consolidate on the infrastructural development, he has started including restoration of security.”

On his part, Prince Emma Anyanwu said: “Amaechi as a believer in a course and would want to die with that course”.

In his words: “Amaechi charted a course of re-direction and went to the foundation, of development, which include building of primary and secondary education insisting that people of the state should encourage by casting their vote to enable him do more.” He said: The PDP family would give Ameachi the necessary vote to enable him win the gubernatorial election on his part, Chief Ombo Isokariari urged the people to come.

Out enmasse and vote for Amaechi and all the PDP candidate.” If you give 99.9 per cent to President Goodluck Jonathan, give 100 per cent to Rt. Hon Chuibike Amaechi and all the candidates for the Senate and House of Representatives.”

He asserted that, “it is time to do the doing and not to talk the talking.”

Other political big wigs that spoke include, sergent Chidi Awuse, (fondly called the political bulldozer), Chief G.U. Ake, the State PDP Chairman, the National Publicity Secretary, Chief Uche Secundus. Chief G.U. Ake said “I predicted 20 years ago that Amaechi would become a governor, but people did not believe me. Today he claimed;  “Ikwerre people doubted or did not want to recognise Amaechi because they say, Amaechi is arrogant.”

“Amaechi to me is not arrogant but because of his objectivity, they say he is proud; for he is one man who keeps his promise” Amaechi he said. “brought  the Ikwerres to political limelight.”

All the political big wigs of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) that presented goodwill messages at the campaign rally at Isiokpo, re-emphasised the need for a 100 per cent vote, from the electorate come, April 16,2011, to enable Governor Amaechi consolidate on his people-oriented  projects in the state.

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AKPABIO, DIRI, OBOREVWORI, OTHERS VOW TO REELECT TINUBU  …AS GIADOM RETAINS APC ZONAL CHAIR 

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Senate President, Senator Godswill Akpabio, has declared that with the six South-South states now being controlled by the All Progressives Congress (APC), the zone is set to return the highest votes cast for the reelection of President Bola Tinubu in 2027.
He stated this in Asaba, Delta State, at the party’s zonal congress, noting that the coming together of the governors of the region in the APC was made possible by its zonal Vice Chairman, Chief Victor Giadom.
Senator Akpabio also praised the outgone zonal chieftains of the party, saying they worked hard for the unity of the party and the zone.
“Now that we are complete and focused, we will be the geo-political zone in Nigeria that will turn out the highest votes in 2027 for President Tinubu.
“In the last 46 years or so, our region had not produced a senate president. But under President Tinubu, the South-South region is recognised. We thank the president for giving the South-South a senate president”, he said.
In his speech, the Bayelsa State Governor, and Chairman of the South-South Governors Forum, Senator Douye Diri, described the APC adoption of the  consensus option for electing its officials as the best way to foster unity and consolidation in the party ahead of the 2027 general elections.
He expressed satisfaction that politically, the South-South zone now speaks with one voice under the APC, stressing the need for the region to be part of the decision-making process at the national level.
The governor recalled that when he contested for the governorship in 2019, the delegate election process for primaries in the political parties made the exercise rancorous, saying
the slogan then was that without delegates, there will be no governor, but that that has since changed with the consensus mode.
“I like to align myself with the previous speakers on the unity of the South-South zone. In this region politically, the South-South now speaks with one voice. This is important because of the strategic nature of the zone.
“If you are not on the sharing table, in terms of decision-making process, you will be left behind. We need to be united that we will not allow petty divisions among us.
“Let us work together for the unity and protection of APC in the South-South and God willing, all our candidates will come out tops in the 2027 elections. There cannot be anything better than a united family.
“Let me congratulate President Bola Tinubu for his remarkable achievements so far. Political events such as elective congresses like this were usually filled with rancour and violence. But, today, we have adopted the consensus model to produce our party executives from the wards to the regional level”, Senator Diri said.
In their goodwill messages, the Governor of Delta State, Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori, and others all spoke on unity of purpose to be able to re-elect the President for a second term.
Meanwhile, Chief Victor Giadom was returned as the party’s zonal chairman alongside seven other zonal executives of the party.
Speaker of the Delta State House of Assembly, Emomotimi Guwor, moved the motion for the dissolution of the immediate past zonal executive of the party and was seconded by his Bayelsa State counterpart, Abraham Ingobere.
In his remarks, the reelected zonal Vice Chairman, Chief Victor Giadom, said the gathering of the six governors of the region, lawmakers, ministers and other major stakeholders was an indication of the zone’s commitment to return all APC candidates in next year’s poll.
 By: Ariwera Ibibo-Howells, Yenagoa
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RIVERS WOMEN RALLY SUPPORT, CONTINUOUS PRAYERS FOR TINUBU 

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A coalition of women under the aegis of “Renewed Hope Women of Faith in Politics,” have organized a rally in support of President Bola Tinubu, ahead of the 2027 general elections.
They equally called for continuous prayers with a view to seeking God’s intervention on the affairs of the nation.
The rally which, held in Port Harcourt, drew participants from diverse religious and political backgrounds, underscoring its interfaith outlook and focus on unity, national development and grassroots engagement.
Powered by Rivers Women Unite for SIM, the movement was described as a strategic initiative aimed at bringing women together across the federation as a unified force committed to prayer, advocacy and civic responsibility.
Speaking at the event, the Convener, Amaopuorubo Sotonye Toby, said the platform was designed to function as a nationwide network of women committed to interceding for Nigeria’s peace, stability and good governance.
She stressed that sustained prayer remains a vital instrument for national transformation, particularly in challenging times.
According to her, the role of women in nation-building cannot be overemphasised, especially in a multicultural society like Nigeria, where women continue to contribute significantly across sectors such as education, business, entrepreneurship and politics, while also fulfilling family responsibilities.
“In our diversity lies our strength. As women of faith, we must unite across religious and political lines to build a stronger, more inclusive Nigeria,” she said, adding that the movement represents a renewed commitment to collective purpose and national progress.
Amaopuorubo Toby further emphasised that beyond its spiritual focus, the initiative is anchored on action through responsible civic engagement, particularly at the grassroots level. She noted that the group aims to mobilise women, empower them with purpose, and amplify their voices as key drivers of peace and development.
Reaffirming the group’s political stance, she declared support for the re-election of President Tinubu, aligning the movement with the ideals of the All Progressives Congress (APC) and its Renewed Hope Agenda.
“We recognise the importance of continuity in leadership and the need to support governance that promotes stability, growth and national development. As women, we stand firmly behind the President as we look ahead to 2027,” she stated.
She also highlighted the transformative power of women’s unity, noting that history has consistently shown that when women rise with a shared vision, societies are strengthened, communities are healed, and hope is restored.
The convener commended participants for their resilience and commitment, urging them to remain steadfast as pillars of faith, courage and hope in the face of national challenges. She called on women at all levels—from ward to national—to take their rightful place in shaping Nigeria’s future.
Amaopuorubo Toby also lauded the leadership of Rivers State Governor, Siminalayi Fubara, alongside President Tinubu, for what she described as their “fatherly leadership” and commitment to governance and development.
Speaking with newsmen at the occasion, a woman activist in the state, Madam Ankio Briggs said the women will also support the reelection of Governor Fubara for a second term if he decides to run.
Madam Briggs praised the women for coming out to declare their support for the reelection of President Tinubu and the Governor and urged them to sustain the support.
The event concluded with a call for sustained unity among women of all faiths, as well as continued prayers for the peace, prosperity and stability of Nigeria.
Observers say the emergence of faith-based political movements such as Renewed Hope Women of Faith in Politics reflects a growing trend of grassroots mobilisation ahead of future elections, with women increasingly positioning themselves as influential stakeholders in Nigeria’s political and developmental landscape.
By: John Bibor
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APC Unveils New NWC At National Convention

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The All Progressives Congress (APC) has concluded its 8th national convention in Abuja — reaffirming Prof Nentawe Yilwatda as national chairman and Sen. Ajibola Basiru as its national secretary.

Delegates at the convention, held at the Eagle Square, also produced a new national working committee (NWC) through a consensus arrangement endorsed by stakeholders.

Dr Ben Nwoye was named deputy national chairman (south), replacing Mr Emma Eneukwu, following consultations within the party.

Sources within the party said the decision was influenced by zoning considerations and consultations among party leaders, with Mr Peter Mbah, Enugu State governor, playing a significant role in ensuring Dr Nwoye’s inclusion.

In his acceptance speech, Prof. Yilwatda said his re-election was a call to greater service and pledged commitment to unity within the ruling party.

“We are ready to serve, ready to lead, and we are ready to build the party, together with the nation,” he said.

He added that the new leadership would not “fail or falter” in carrying out its responsibilities.

President Bola Tinubu, Vice-President Kashim Shettima, governors, members of the national assembly, and other party leaders graced the convention.

FULL LIST OF APC NWC

• National chairman — Nentawe Yilwatda

• Deputy national chairman (north) — Ali Bukar Dalori

• Deputy national chairman (south) — Benjamin Obi Nwoye

• National secretary — Surajudeen Ajibola Basiru

• Deputy national secretary — AbdulKarim Abubakar Kana

• National legal adviser — Murtala Aliyu Kankia

• National treasurer — Uguru Mathew Ofoke

• National financial secretary — Haruna Ginsau

• National organising secretary — Muhammad Sulaiman Argungu

• National welfare secretary — Donatus Enyinnah Nwankpa

• National publicity secretary — Felix Morka

• National auditor — Abubakar Maikafi

National women leader — Mary A. Idele

• National youth leader — Dayo Israel

• National leader (persons with disabilities) — Durotolu Oyebode Bankole

• Deputy national financial secretary — Hammam Adamu Ali Kumo

• Deputy national organising secretary — Emeka Okafor

• Deputy national women leader — Zainab Abubakar Ibrahim

• Deputy national publicity secretary — Meseko Durosinmi Josiah

• Deputy national welfare secretary — Christopher Michael Akpan

• Deputy national auditor — Olugbenga Olayemi

• Deputy national legal adviser — Ibrahim Salawu

• Deputy national treasurer — Ben Akak

• Deputy national youth leader — Jamaludeen Kabiru

• National ex-officio (north-central) — Opawoye Oluwatoyin Bunmi

• National ex-officio (north-east) — Adamu Jallah

• National ex-officio (north-west) — Kano Muhammed Jamu Yusuf

• National ex-officio (south-east) — Ikechukwu Umeh

• National ex-officio (south-south) — Francis Kolokolo.

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