Fubara’s re-election bid hangs, awaits screening results

The re-election bid of embattled Rivers State Governor Siminalayi Fubara remains uncertain following his appearance before the All Progressives Congress (APC) governorship screening committee.

Despite the conclusion of the exercise in Abuja, the ruling party has remained tight-lipped regarding the Governor’s standing, refusing to confirm his status as a cleared aspirant for the 2027 polls.

The atmosphere during the exercise grew tense when Governor Fubara reportedly spent only 20 minutes with the panel before abruptly storming out of the venue.

His refusal to speak with the press and his visible agitation have fueled speculation that his path to a second term under the APC banner is facing significant internal hurdles.

Addressing journalists on Sunday, the APC National Secretary, Ajibola Basiru, offered a non-committal response regarding the Governor’s participation.

He noted that while appearing before the committee is a mandatory part of the process, the party cannot provide a definitive verdict until the screening committee formally submits its report.

This evasive stance has deepened the suspense surrounding the Governor, who has been a central figure in the party’s complex regional power struggles.

In contrast to the tension surrounding the Rivers State Governor, other aspirants expressed high confidence in the party’s internal mechanisms.

Commander Yilchini Jan Bida (retd), a governorship aspirant from Plateau State, lauded the screening process as a testament to the APC’s commitment to internal democracy.

He emphasized that the party has created a level playing field, allowing candidates to present their visions for their respective states without undue interference.

He noted that the decision to potentially use a direct primary system empowers the electorate, adding that his supporters back home are already celebrating his successful screening.

According to Bida, his capability is well-recognized by his constituents, and he expects to emerge victorious at the primaries to eventually lead the state come May 29, 2027.