25 Groups Move to Refund Fubara’s Nomination Fee, Cite Performance as Key Selling Point

No fewer than 25 groups have volunteered to refund the ₦50 million nomination fee for Siminalayi Fubara, describing his performance in office as a strong political asset despite ongoing distractions.

The groups, operating under the Coalition of Greater Nigeria Groups (GNG), said the gesture underscores widespread support for the Rivers State Governor and a collective desire to see him continue in office.

The nomination and expression of interest forms had earlier been purchased on Fubara’s behalf by party elders and stakeholders in the All Progressives Congress (APC).

Speaking to journalists in Abuja, a member of the House of Representatives, Awaji-Inombek Abiante, described the planned refund as a united effort by Rivers stakeholders, driven by the broader interest of the state.

According to the coalition’s spokesperson, Comrade Jinadu Suleiman, delegations from various affiliated groups had arrived in Abuja ahead of a planned rally to purchase the forms, only to learn that APC stakeholders had already completed the process.

Despite this, the coalition said it would proceed with refunding the fee to demonstrate solidarity with the governor.

“We must be part of this moment. This is to reassure the Governor that Nigerians, both at home and abroad, stand firmly behind him,” Suleiman said.

The coalition emphasized that Fubara’s record in office—particularly amid political pressures—has become a compelling campaign advantage. It expressed confidence that he would secure a decisive victory in the next election cycle.

Highlighting key achievements, the groups pointed to prompt payment of salaries and pensions, infrastructure renewal, and major development projects, including the renovation of the state secretariat complex, construction of staff quarters, and the 20,000-unit RIVTAF housing scheme.

They also cited the ₦4 billion SME loan initiative in partnership with the Bank of Industry, alongside investments in security—such as the procurement of a surveillance helicopter for the Nigerian Air Force and logistics support for multiple security agencies.

The coalition further referenced ongoing road and connectivity projects across the state, noting their impact on linking riverine communities with urban centres.

“These accomplishments, achieved in less than three years under difficult circumstances, demonstrate capacity and commitment. A second term would offer even greater results,” the statement added.