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President Bola Tinubu on Saturday thanked Rivers State voters for their support in the 2023 presidential election that helped him become president. He asked them to back him again in the upcoming election on January 16, 2027, to build on what his government has achieved.
At a campaign rally at the Adokiye Amiesimaka Stadium in Port Harcourt, Tinubu praised the large crowd and the reconciliation between Governor Siminalayi Fubara and his predecessor, Nyesom Wike, who is now the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory.
The Rainbow Coalition, led by Wike, organized the rally. It brought together political leaders and supporters from Rivers State and other places.
Tinubu said that Governor Fubara showed maturity and respect for the elders who helped resolve the issues between him and Wike. He said, “During the political crisis caused by a misunderstanding in the family, I intervened on your behalf. I thank Governor Fubara, in particular, for his maturity, understanding, and respect for the wisdom of elders when we intervened. Fubara, you will not regret what you have done as long as all of us are alive.”
Focus on Economy
When discussing the economy, Tinubu reassured Nigerians that his government’s reforms are leading the country towards better times. He mentioned that the federal government is addressing old debts, including unpaid pensions and gratuities, to help more families benefit from the recovery.
He said, “The people who governed before us left unpaid pensions and gratuities running into billions and trillions of Naira. We are clearing that backlog so that every family is included and we can share in the prosperity.”
Tinubu explained that they have cleared outstanding debts like pensions and salaries owed in 27 of the 36 states, ensuring that beneficiaries can expect their monthly payments.
He added, “When those people talk about hunger, remember that I am cleaning up the mess they created. Atiku was one of them. Ask him how he built a private university while in office as Vice President in charge of our economy. Who funded the university for him? It was your money, your effort!”
Tinubu questioned Atiku's integrity for wanting to serve in public office again. He said, “A man without moral integrity, latitude, and ethics has no business holding public office.”
Manifesto for 2027
During the rally, Tinubu also presented his plans for the 2027 election. Vice President Kashim Shettima urged Rivers State leaders and supporters to back Tinubu’s re-election, highlighting the administration's achievements and commitment to the region.
Shettima noted that the country’s financial situation is improving, with reserves rising from about $3.9 billion to $60 billion in the last three years. He said people should ignore Atiku’s economic advice, calling him “intellectually malnourished.” He also criticized NDC candidate Peter Obi, saying he struggles with “political irrelevance” and “mediocrity.”
Governor Fubara promised to deliver three million votes for Tinubu in the 2027 presidential election. He assured the president of his full support in the Rainbow Coalition and acknowledged Wike's leadership.
Fubara said, “Under the guidance and leadership of FCT Minister Nyesom Wike, we will deliver not less than three million votes for you.” He added that political supporters from both the All Progressives Congress (APC) and the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) are working together in unity under the Rainbow Coalition.
Wike’s Welcome Address
Earlier, Wike welcomed the crowd, saying the turnout shows Rivers State’s support for Tinubu’s re-election. He stated, “Your Excellency, this is Rivers State’s rally. We did not mobilise anybody from any other state. You can see with your eyes that the people of Rivers State have already concluded and agreed that on January 16, they will vote for you.”
Wike thanked Tinubu for appointing Rivers State indigenes to key positions and mentioned federal projects in the state, like the Bonny, Bodo Road and the Federal University of Environment in Ogoniland.
Wike said, “Since the inception of democracy in 1999, Rivers people have never had it this way. We have no less than 47 political appointments from Mr President. So, who is our brother? Our brother is Bola Ahmed Tinubu because he has identified with the people of Rivers State.”
He also pointed out that former Rivers State Governor Rotimi Amaechi could not account for $39 million meant for the Karibi Whyte Specialist Hospital project and the budget for fumigating the state.
The rally at the 40,000-capacity Adokiye Amiesimaka Stadium was full, with many people spilling into the surrounding areas.
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