The Rivers State House of Assembly (RSHA) on Wednesday passed a unanimous resolution urging President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to seek re-election in the 2027 general elections.
The motion, which originated during plenary, was passed after an overwhelming voice vote, signaling an early political endorsement for the President from the strategically important South-South state.
Commendation for Leadership and ‘Love for Rivers’
The resolution was moved by the House Leader, Major Jack (representing Akuku-Toru I constituency), who commended President Tinubu for “steering the ship” of the country in the “right direction.”
Jack specifically asked the Assembly to include a prayer asking the President to contest in 2027, citing his “leadership and love for Rivers State.” The motion garnered sponsorship from at least 15 members of the Assembly, with all lawmakers present voicing support.
Supporting the motion, Dumle Maol (Gokana constituency) noted the visible impact of the administration in the state, including the appointment of six members from his constituency to federal positions.
“My people have asked me to support this motion. The house should call on the president to contest again because you cannot change a winning team,” Maol stated.
Linda Somiari-Stewart, the Deputy House Leader, emphasized the significance of the resolution, stating that the vote was “not a mere ceremonial expression. It is a declaration that is solemn and weighty, and made when the nation demands stability, freedom, and leadership.”
Support Despite Past Intervention
The staunch support from the RSHA is notable given the recent political history in the state. President Tinubu had declared an emergency rule in Rivers State on March 18, which led to the temporary suspension of the state Governor, his deputy, and all members of the Assembly. The emergency rule was eventually lifted on September 17, 2025.
Despite this recent federal intervention, the Assembly leadership pledged unwavering support for the central government.
Speaker Martins Amaewhule committed the Assembly to supporting the Federal Government, especially on security matters, rather than engaging in criticism.
“The president is doing the needful [in terms of security]… We won’t join those who are demarketing this country. We’d rather join those praying for the country,” the Speaker concluded.
The resolution signals the readiness of the Rivers political structure to align early with the Tinubu administration ahead of the next electoral cycle.
