Post-primaries: Ex-Reps deputy speaker urges unity in Rivers

A former deputy speaker of the House of Representatives, Chibudom Nwuche, on Wednesday, called on leaders across political divides in Rivers State to prioritise the interests of the people over personal ambitions and partisan conflicts.

He said peace, stability, and progress in the state must remain paramount.

Nwuche stated this in a press statement made available to our correspondent, following the conclusion of the primaries of political parties, ahead of the 2027 general elections.

Recall that Rivers State has experienced political turbulence since 2023, following the battle for political control between Governor Siminalayi Fubara and his predecessor and Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike.

The crisis has led to governance challenges, political tension, and unnecessary division over the past three years.

Nwuche, who noted that such political tension had hampered development and eroded public confidence in democratic institutions, called on the people of the state, regardless of political affiliation, ethnicity, or religious background, to unite behind a leadership vision rooted in peace, unity, inclusion, economic growth, and the state’s socio-economic development.

He said, “Rivers State has faced significant governance challenges, political tension, and unnecessary division over the past three years, which have hampered development and eroded public confidence in democratic institutions.

“The time has come for leaders across political divides to prioritise the interests of the people over personal ambitions and partisan conflicts. Peace, stability, and progress in Rivers State must remain paramount.

“Let me congratulate the All Progressives Congress governorship candidate in Rivers State, Mr Kingsley Chinda, on his emergence as the party’s flag bearer.

“His candidacy is a defining moment for the future of Rivers State and a victory for progressive politics, grassroots participation, and inclusive governance.”

He urged the governorship candidate to remain steadfast, continue to embrace his de-tribalised approach, and treat everyone equally.

Nwuche, who is the chairman of the South-South Development Commission, also congratulated candidates from Rivers West Senatorial District and various federal constituencies who emerged victorious in the primaries in both the APC and the Peoples Democratic Party in Rivers State.

He specifically congratulated Chief Felix Obuah, APC senatorial candidate for Rivers West Senatorial District; Solomon Bob, candidate for Ahoada East/Abua-Odual Federal Constituency; and Victor Obuzor, candidate for Ahoada West/Ogba-Egbema-Ndoni Federal Constituency.

The former deputy speaker urged the candidates to see their emergence not merely as political victories but as a solemn call to service, sacrifice, and responsible leadership.

He also called on the electorate across the state to support credible leaders with proven records of dedication, competence, and public service, maintaining that the state’s future was dependent on visionary leadership, political unity, and collective responsibility among all stakeholders.