The governorship candidate of the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC) in Rivers State, Blessing Fubara, has declared that his political journey is driven by a desire to rescue the state from years of political turmoil and economic decline, insisting that he answers to no political godfather.
Speaking during a recent interview and a solidarity walk attended by supporters across the state, Fubara said his only source of backing is God and the people of Rivers State.
“I have God the Father, not a godfather,” he stated. “I am running for governor because Rivers people need a change. Any system of government that places politics above governance will struggle to deliver meaningful development.”
According to him, residents of the state have grown weary of endless political battles that have overshadowed governance and stalled progress.
“Rivers people are tired of the constant political conflicts. As an indigene of Rivers State, I have the constitutional right to vote and be voted for. The people are yearning for a new direction , one that offers hope, restores confidence, and creates opportunities for tomorrow,” he said.
Fubara argued that the state requires a new generation of leadership capable of challenging existing structures that have, in his view, contributed to economic decline and underdevelopment.
“A lot of politicians have destabilised the state without delivering meaningful benefits to the people. We are bringing something different. Our goal is to rescue Rivers State and restore its lost potential,” he added.
The governorship hopeful also criticised the culture of political godfatherism, describing it as a major obstacle to democratic growth and good governance.
“Many of the so-called godfathers in the state have contributed to the situation Rivers finds itself in today. If you look at recent political developments, you will realise that godfatherism is a scam. The people must reject paid narratives and focus on leaders who are genuinely committed to their welfare,” he said.
Fubara stressed the need to separate politics from governance, noting that elections should give way to service delivery once leaders assume office.
“There is a time for politics and there is a time for governance. No government that prioritises politics over development can attract investments or improve the lives of its people. Our focus is youth empowerment, women’s economic inclusion, support for micro, small and medium-scale enterprises, and creating opportunities for all residents of the state,” he explained.
He further stated that rebuilding Rivers State would require restoring trust in government and ensuring that policies are driven by the needs of the people.
“A good government must be people-oriented. We must listen to the people, understand their needs and deliver solutions that improve their lives,” he said.
Fubara maintained that he remains loyal to his party and would respect the democratic process, describing his candidacy as a response to the growing demand for fresh leadership.
“I am a party man. If the people accept the outcome, I will accept the outcome. I am not here on my own; I am here because the people want something new,” he said.
Supporters who participated in the solidarity walk expressed confidence in Fubara’s leadership qualities, describing him as calm, sincere and capable of changing the state’s fortunes.
Many of them said his emergence represents a fresh opportunity for Rivers State and voiced optimism that his leadership could usher in a new era of development and prosperity.