Tony Okocha, leader of the opposition in Rivers State from the All Progressives Congress (APC), has pledged to dislodge Governor Sim Fubara in the 2027 gubernatorial election. Addressing party members on Saturday, November 30, 2024, Okocha declared his commitment to revitalizing the APC in Rivers State to secure victory across all levels of government.
Legal and Political Context
The Port Harcourt High Court had declared Okocha’s Caretaker Committee illegal, affirming the Emeka Beke-led elected executives as the legitimate APC leadership in Rivers State. However, tensions within the party remain unresolved, with factions loyal to former Governor Nyesom Wike and Okocha continuing to clash.
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Defying court orders, the Okocha-led faction, with backing from the National Working Committee (NWC), conducted state congresses, culminating in the election of new party executives. The state congress, held on Saturday, was overseen by a national delegation led by Adoye Omale and attended by prominent party figures, including Victor Giadom, Magnus Abe, and Maureen Tamuno.
Tony Okocha -Vision for the APC
In his address, Okocha criticized Fubara’s administration as “rudderless” and expressed confidence in the APC’s ability to win upcoming elections. “We will contest elections and win all levels—from local government to the state governorship,” he stated. He praised the turnout at the congress and urged party members to rally behind the new leadership.
Broader Political Developments
Okocha highlighted the revival of the Port Harcourt Refinery as evidence of Nigeria’s progress under the APC-led federal government. He also expressed optimism about the rehabilitation of the Warri and Kaduna refineries.
Election Results
The state congress was conducted via voice votes, with all positions uncontested. The event was monitored by the Rivers State Resident Electoral Commissioner and representatives from the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC). However, it remains unclear how positions were distributed among key party factions.