Rivers State Governor, Siminalayi Fubara, has sparked intense political debate after announcing his decision to join the Rainbow Coalition, a political movement founded by the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, ahead of the 2027 general elections.
The announcement, made on Wednesday during the foundation-laying ceremony of the RIVEN Medical Industries Project in Rumuosi, Port Harcourt, has drawn mixed reactions from political observers, supporters and critics, with many taking to social media to express contrasting views.
Declaring his political alignment, Fubara confirmed that he had returned to Wike’s political family and urged Rivers residents to support candidates associated with the coalition in the next general election.
“I am supporting President Tinubu for the Presidency and O.K. Chinda to be the next Governor of Rivers State.
“I am part of the Rainbow Coalition, and I’m back to my political family,” the governor said.
Fubara also appealed to political stakeholders and residents of Rivers State to put aside their differences and embrace reconciliation after months of political tension in the state.
He urged his supporters to support his decision, describing unity as essential for lasting peace and sustainable socio-economic development.
The governor’s declaration, however, triggered sharp divisions among his supporters and political followers.
While some welcomed the move as a pragmatic decision aimed at restoring political stability, others described it as a betrayal of those who stood by him during the prolonged political crisis between him and his predecessor, Wike.
Several reactions posted on X reflected the divided opinions.
A user, @jointrd44, argued that Fubara’s decision was driven by political survival, stating that supporting Wike’s coalition was the wisest option ahead of leaving office in 2027.
Another user, @fuji_xud, described the governor’s return as “a shameful outing,” insisting he should not have rejoined the political camp.
Similarly, @ChiefObi criticised the governor, saying he had “never seen a coward like Sim.”
On the other hand, @aoidogwu1309 suggested that political allies who encouraged Fubara to confront Wike had abandoned him, making reconciliation inevitable.
Another commenter, @Barnny_summy, claimed the governor had effectively ended his political career, describing the development as disappointing.
The announcement marks a significant shift in Rivers State’s political landscape and is expected to reshape alliances ahead of the 2027 general elections.