High Chief Anabs Sara-Igbe, pioneer spokesman of the Pan Niger Delta Forum (PANDEF), has declared that Rivers State Governor Siminalayi Fubara currently enjoys massive grassroots support across the state, making him a formidable political force ahead of the 2027 elections.
Sara-Igbe made the remarks during an interview while speaking on the political situation in Rivers State and the ongoing crisis involving Governor Fubara and the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike.
According to the elder statesman, the governor’s popularity among ordinary residents has continued to grow despite the prolonged political tension in the state.
He argued that Fubara’s calm approach to governance and his relationship with the people have strengthened his political standing across different parts of Rivers State.
“if Fubara picks the ticket, it will be difficult for other parties because the governor has a grassroot support and it is organic,” Sara-Igbe stated during the interview.
He further added, “The support you see for Fubara today is not arranged. It is something that comes naturally from the people because they believe in him.”
Sara-Igbe maintained that the governor’s acceptance among residents cuts across political, ethnic, and social lines, making him a difficult opponent for any rival political party.
According to him, many Rivers people see Fubara as a leader who has remained focused despite intense political pressure and distractions.
The people have decided to stand with him because they believe he means well for Rivers State,” he said.
The PANDEF chieftain noted that the political crisis in the state has unexpectedly increased public sympathy and support for the governor.
He argued that many residents now view Fubara as someone being unfairly targeted despite emerging through an established political structure.
Sara-Igbe also claimed that attempts to weaken the governor politically may eventually backfire because of the level of emotional connection he currently enjoys among ordinary people.
“When the people genuinely love a leader, it becomes very difficult to fight that kind of popularity,” he stated.
The elder statesman stressed that political influence in Rivers State should not be measured only by control of party structures or alliances among elite politicians.
According to him, grassroots support remains one of the most important factors in determining electoral success in the state.
He said many political observers underestimate the power of ordinary voters, especially when they become emotionally invested in a leader.
Sara-Igbe further argued that Rivers politics has evolved beyond the era when political outcomes could be controlled solely through elite arrangements.
“The strength of every politician is the people, and today the people are standing with Fubara,” he added.
The ongoing political crisis in Rivers State has continued to dominate national discussions following the fallout between Governor Fubara and his predecessor, Nyesom Wike.
The dispute has resulted in divisions within the state political structure, including disagreements involving lawmakers, party officials, and loyalists of both political camps.
Despite the tensions, Fubara has continued to receive support from several elders, political stakeholders, and groups within the Niger Delta region.
Sara-Igbe maintained that the governor’s increasing popularity reflects public desire for stability, inclusion, and a less confrontational style of leadership.
He also urged political actors in the state to place the interest of Rivers people above personal ambitions and political rivalries.
According to him, the future of the state depends on peace, unity, and respect for the will of the people rather than prolonged political battles.
“The people of Rivers State know what they want, and nobody should underestimate their voice,” Sara-Igbe said.
