By Joy Yesufu
Barely hours after Rivers State Governor, Siminalayi Fubara, withdrew from the 2027 governorship race, another politician bearing the Fubara name has emerged as a governorship aspirant under the platform of the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC).
The new entrant, identified as Blessing Fubara Snr., has obtained the party’s nomination and expression of interest forms to contest the 2027 governorship election in Rivers State.
Blessing Fubara secured the forms at the NDC national headquarters in Abuja on Wednesday, a development that has sparked fresh political discussions within Rivers State political circles amid ongoing realignments ahead of the next general election.
Although both Blessing Fubara and Governor Siminalayi Fubara are from Opobo/Nkoro Local Government Area of Rivers State, it remains unclear whether they share any family relationship.
Confirming the development, the Rivers State Chairman of the NDC, Hon. Success Jack, said Blessing Fubara is officially among the party’s governorship aspirants.
“Yes, he obtained his expression of interest form in Abuja, and the party is preparing not only to contest but to win the governorship and other elections in Rivers State in 2027,” he stated.
The party chairman, however, said he could not confirm whether the aspirant is related to the governor.
Political observers note that Blessing Fubara’s emergence comes at a critical period in Rivers politics, especially following reports of Governor Fubara’s decision to step away from the 2027 governorship contest.
Blessing Fubara reportedly defected from the All Progressives Congress (APC) to the NDC about two weeks ago. During his reception in Abuja, he was welcomed by former Bayelsa State Governor, Seriake Dickson, alongside other party stakeholders.
Speaking during the defection event, the governorship aspirant reportedly described the NDC as “a moving train,” adding that his decision to join the party was motivated by the desire to protect the interests of Rivers people.
He also warned that “the soul of Rivers State is at stake” as political permutations ahead of the 2027 elections continue to gather momentum.
Blessing Fubara Snr. holds a degree in Community Development and Adult Education and currently serves as the Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of D’Consiglories LLC.
He is also described as a development strategist and grassroots mobiliser with interests in urban renewal, youth empowerment, and public sector advisory services.
His entry into the race has already generated mixed reactions across the state’s political landscape.
While supporters view his candidacy as part of an emerging political movement capable of reshaping the opposition structure in Rivers State, critics argue that the NDC still faces the challenge of building a strong statewide political network capable of competing with more established parties ahead of 2027.
