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A socio-political group, The Enforcers of Good Governance, has called on Rivers State Governor, Sir Siminalayi Fubara, to retain his Deputy Governor, Prof. Ngozi Nma Odu, as his running mate in the 2027 gubernatorial election.<\/p>\n
In an open letter addressed to the governor, the group expressed concern over what it described as \u201cwidespread but unconfirmed reports\u201d suggesting that Fubara may be considering replacing Odu with a younger candidate believed to have greater electoral appeal.<\/p>\n
The group said recent political developments, including the reported purchase of APC nomination forms and the circulation of a purported House of Assembly list allegedly excluding the deputy governor\u2019s input, had fueled the speculation.<\/p>\n
Signed by its Founder and National Leader, Dr. Kingsley Ogu, the group emphasized that Prof. Odu remains a critical political asset, particularly in the Orashi region, comprising Ogba\/Egbema\/Ndoni, Ahoada East, Ahoada West, and Abua\/Odual local government areas.<\/p>\n
According to the group, the deputy governor played a significant role in mobilising support that contributed to the victory of the Fubara\/Odu ticket in the 2023 governorship election.<\/p>\n
\u201cThe overwhelming support recorded in the Orashi axis was largely driven by her political influence, credibility, and grassroots acceptance,\u201d the letter stated.<\/p>\n
The group further noted that its own political structure was largely built around confidence in Odu\u2019s leadership, adding that it had mobilised extensively in support of the current administration during the last election cycle.<\/p>\n
Highlighting her track record, the group described Odu as a seasoned public servant whose integrity and competence earned her widespread goodwill, making her selection in 2023 a \u201cstrategic political masterstroke.\u201d<\/p>\n
It also commended her loyalty during periods of political tension in the state, particularly at a time when the administration faced internal challenges and impeachment threats.<\/p>\n
\u201cSuch loyalty is rare in politics,\u201d the group said, warning that any move to drop her could reinforce negative narratives and weaken existing political alliances.<\/p>\n
The group stressed that electoral success in Rivers State depends heavily on strong performances in key areas such as Port Harcourt, Obio\/Akpor, and the Orashi region, arguing that Odu remains well-positioned to secure significant support in those areas.<\/p>\n
While reaffirming its support for the governor, the group maintained that its structure is more inclined to mobilise for any ticket that includes the deputy governor, whom it described as a symbol of principled leadership.<\/p>\n
It cautioned against political strategies that could create internal divisions or rely heavily on coercive political structures, warning that such approaches may undermine long-term legitimacy and public trust.<\/p>\n
The group also referenced concerns that the deputy governor may have been politically sidelined in certain aspects of governance, yet acknowledged her continued loyalty and discipline.<\/p>\n
In its appeal, the group urged Governor Fubara to prioritise continuity, inclusion, and political stability as preparations for the 2027 elections gather momentum.<\/p>\n
It cited President Bola Tinubu\u2019s decision to maintain his vice-presidential ticket despite political pressures as an example of strategic consistency.<\/p>\n
The group concluded by expressing confidence in the governor\u2019s leadership and urging him to avoid decisions that could create avoidable fractures within the state\u2019s political structure.<\/p>\n
By Nzeuzor Jane, Port-Harcourt\u00a0<\/strong><\/em><\/p>\nLike this:<\/h3>\n