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The Ondo State Chapter of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has lauded the Governor of Rivers State, Siminalayi Fubara, describing him as a paragon of resilience, calm leadership, and unwavering commitment to democratic principles. The party’s glowing endorsement comes in the wake of what it termed a “political distraction” aimed at undermining the will of the people of Rivers State. In a statement issued on Wednesday, September 24, 2025, in Akure, the state capital, the PDP Caretaker Chairman in Ondo State, Chief Bakkita Bello, warmly welcomed Governor Fubara back to office, celebrating his return as a triumph for democracy and a testament to the enduring power of the people’s mandate.
Chief Bello’s statement was not merely a routine political endorsement but a carefully worded expression of solidarity, admiration, and optimism for Governor Fubara’s continued leadership. The Ondo PDP’s remarks reflect the broader sentiments within the party, which sees Fubara as a stabilizing force in Nigerian politics, particularly within the complex and often turbulent political landscape of Rivers State. By emphasizing Fubara’s qualities—resilience, calm leadership, and faith in constitutional governance—the party seeks to position him as a model for other political leaders in Nigeria, particularly within the PDP fold.
A Victory for Democracy
The statement from the Ondo PDP underscores the significance of Governor Fubara’s return to office following what the party described as a “political distraction meant to derail the will of the people.” While the statement did not delve into the specifics of the distraction, it is widely understood to reference the recent political turmoil in Rivers State, characterized by tensions between factions within the PDP and other political actors vying for influence in the oil-rich state. These challenges have tested Fubara’s leadership since he assumed office, yet his ability to navigate them has earned him praise from party faithful across Nigeria.
“Your return is not only a victory for democracy but also a profound reaffirmation that the mandate freely given by the peoples of Rivers cannot be subverted by any force,” Chief Bello declared. This assertion highlights the PDP’s belief that Fubara’s leadership is anchored in the democratic choice of the Rivers electorate, a mandate that cannot be overturned by political maneuvering or external pressures. The statement reflects a broader narrative within the PDP, which has consistently emphasized the sanctity of democratic processes and the importance of respecting the will of the people.
The Ondo PDP’s support for Fubara also serves as a reminder of the interconnectedness of Nigeria’s political landscape. While Ondo and Rivers States are geographically and culturally distinct, the PDP’s national structure fosters a sense of unity among its state chapters. By publicly aligning with Fubara, the Ondo PDP signals its commitment to the party’s broader objectives, including the promotion of good governance and democratic values across Nigeria.
Fubara’s Leadership Qualities: A Beacon of Hope
Central to the Ondo PDP’s statement is its celebration of Governor Fubara’s leadership qualities. Chief Bello described Fubara as a leader who embodies resilience, calm leadership, and faith in constitutional governance—attributes that have inspired PDP members not only in Rivers but across the country. These qualities, according to Bello, are particularly significant in the context of Nigeria’s often volatile political environment, where leaders are frequently tested by crises, factionalism, and competing interests.
Fubara’s resilience is evident in his ability to weather political storms without resorting to confrontational or divisive tactics. Unlike some political leaders who thrive on controversy or populist rhetoric, Fubara has cultivated a reputation for calm and measured leadership. This approach has allowed him to maintain stability in Rivers State, even in the face of significant challenges. His commitment to constitutional governance further underscores his respect for the rule of law, a principle that has become increasingly important in Nigeria’s democracy, where allegations of electoral malfeasance and abuse of power are not uncommon.
“We commend your unwavering commitment to peace, development, and service to your people in the face of daunting challenges,” Bello stated. This commendation highlights Fubara’s focus on governance over political brinkmanship. In Rivers State, where political rivalries have historically led to violence and instability, Fubara’s emphasis on peace and development has been a breath of fresh air. His ability to prioritize the welfare of his constituents, even amidst political distractions, has earned him admiration from both supporters and neutral observers.
Bello also praised Fubara’s courage in standing firm for justice and truth, describing him as a “beacon of hope to all lovers of democracy and good governance.” This characterization elevates Fubara’s leadership beyond the confines of Rivers State, positioning him as a national figure whose actions resonate with those who value integrity and accountability in public office. In a country where political leaders are often criticized for prioritizing personal or partisan interests over the public good, Fubara’s commitment to justice and truth is seen as a refreshing departure from the norm.
A Leader Guided by Faith and Love for the People
One of the most striking aspects of the Ondo PDP’s statement is its emphasis on Governor Fubara’s personal qualities, particularly his “genuine love for the people” and “fear of God.” These attributes, according to Chief Bello, set Fubara apart from many of his contemporaries in Nigerian politics. In a political landscape often characterized by self-interest and opportunism, Fubara’s sincerity and moral grounding have resonated with many Nigerians, particularly those within the PDP who see him as a leader with a genuine commitment to public service.
“Your genuine love for the people and fear of God stand you out amongst politicians,” Bello said. This statement reflects a broader cultural and political value in Nigeria, where faith and morality are often invoked as benchmarks for leadership. By highlighting Fubara’s spiritual and ethical convictions, the Ondo PDP seeks to present him as a leader who is not only competent but also trustworthy—a critical factor in building public confidence in governance.
Fubara’s love for the people is evident in his administration’s focus on development projects aimed at improving the quality of life for Rivers residents. From infrastructure improvements to investments in education and healthcare, Fubara has sought to deliver tangible benefits to his constituents. These efforts have not gone unnoticed, as the Ondo PDP’s statement suggests. By aligning itself with Fubara’s leadership, the Ondo PDP is also signaling its commitment to a vision of governance that prioritizes the welfare of ordinary citizens over elite interests.
Solidarity and Support from Ondo PDP
The Ondo PDP’s statement is not merely a rhetorical exercise but a declaration of solidarity with Governor Fubara. “PDP in Ondo State stands solidly with the governor in prayer, solidarity, and goodwill,” Bello affirmed. This pledge of support is significant, given the challenges Fubara has faced in Rivers State. By publicly backing him, the Ondo PDP is reinforcing the party’s unity and its commitment to supporting its leaders, particularly those who embody the party’s values.
The statement also expresses confidence in Fubara’s ability to lead Rivers State to greater heights. “We are confident that under your watch, Rivers will continue to thrive in unity, prosperity, and progress,” Bello said. This optimism is rooted in Fubara’s track record as a leader who has prioritized unity and development, even in the face of political adversity. For the Ondo PDP, Fubara’s leadership is a model for what the party hopes to achieve in other states, including Ondo, where it is working to strengthen its position ahead of future elections.
The call for a “renewed phase” of Fubara’s administration to be marked by “greater achievements and strengthened bonds of trust between government and the governed” reflects the PDP’s broader aspirations for good governance. In Rivers State, where political divisions have often undermined progress, Fubara’s ability to foster trust and unity is seen as a critical factor in his success. By emphasizing this point, the Ondo PDP is not only praising Fubara but also setting a standard for its own leaders and members.
The Broader Context: Rivers State and Nigerian Politics
To fully appreciate the significance of the Ondo PDP’s statement, it is important to consider the broader political context in Rivers State and Nigeria as a whole. Rivers State is one of Nigeria’s most strategically important states, thanks to its vast oil and gas resources, which make it a key contributor to the national economy. The state’s political landscape is notoriously complex, with intense competition among political actors and factions within both the PDP and the opposition All Progressives Congress (APC).
Governor Fubara’s administration has faced significant challenges since he took office, including tensions with certain political heavyweights in the state. These tensions, which have at times threatened to destabilize his government, are part of the “political distraction” referenced by the Ondo PDP. While the specifics of these challenges are not detailed in the statement, they are widely understood to involve disputes over political control and influence within Rivers State.
Despite these challenges, Fubara has managed to maintain a degree of stability in the state, focusing on governance rather than engaging in protracted political battles. His ability to do so has earned him praise from party leaders like Chief Bello, who see his leadership as a stabilizing force in a state with a history of political volatility. The Ondo PDP’s statement can thus be seen as part of a broader effort to rally support for Fubara within the party, particularly at a time when unity is crucial for the PDP’s national and state-level ambitions.
At the national level, the PDP is working to rebuild its influence after losing power to the APC in the 2015 and 2019 general elections. The party’s performance in states like Rivers and Ondo is critical to its hopes of regaining national prominence. By highlighting Fubara’s leadership, the Ondo PDP is not only supporting a fellow party member but also reinforcing the party’s narrative of competence and commitment to good governance.
Implications for Ondo State and the PDP
The Ondo PDP’s statement also has implications for its own political strategy in Ondo State. Like Rivers, Ondo is a state with significant political and economic importance, particularly due to its oil-producing status and strategic location in Nigeria’s South-West region. The PDP in Ondo State has been working to strengthen its position ahead of the 2026 governorship election, following its loss to the APC in previous elections.
By aligning itself with Governor Fubara, the Ondo PDP is signaling its commitment to the same values of resilience, good governance, and democratic principles that it praises in Fubara. This alignment could help the party appeal to voters in Ondo State, many of whom are looking for leaders who prioritize development and unity over political infighting. The statement also serves as a call to action for PDP members in Ondo to emulate Fubara’s leadership style in their own political activities.
Moreover, the statement reflects the Ondo PDP’s efforts to project unity and strength within the party. By publicly supporting Fubara, the Ondo PDP is demonstrating its loyalty to the national leadership of the party and its commitment to the PDP’s broader goals. This is particularly important at a time when the PDP is facing internal challenges, including factionalism and leadership disputes in some states.
Looking Ahead: Fubara’s Legacy and the PDP’s Future
As Governor Fubara moves forward with his administration, the support of party chapters like the Ondo PDP will be crucial in sustaining his momentum. The challenges he faces in Rivers State are unlikely to disappear overnight, but his ability to navigate them with resilience and calm leadership will continue to shape his legacy. For the PDP, Fubara’s success is not just a state-level achievement but a potential blueprint for how the party can reclaim its position as Nigeria’s leading political force.
The Ondo PDP’s statement is a reminder of the power of solidarity within the party. By rallying behind Fubara, the Ondo chapter is contributing to a narrative of unity and progress that could resonate with voters across Nigeria. As the country prepares for the next round of elections, the PDP will need to leverage the successes of leaders like Fubara to build a compelling case for its return to power.
In conclusion, the Ondo State Chapter of the PDP has made a powerful statement in support of Governor Siminalayi Fubara, celebrating his resilience, calm leadership, and commitment to democratic principles. By welcoming him back to office after a period of political distraction, the party has reaffirmed its belief in the sanctity of the people’s mandate and its confidence in Fubara’s ability to lead Rivers State to greater heights. As Nigeria’s political landscape continues to evolve, Fubara’s leadership will serve as an inspiration to PDP members and a reminder of the importance of unity, integrity, and service in governance.