Rivers State Governor Denies Backing ADC Candidates Ahead of Bye-Election

Rivers State Governor Siminalayi Fubara has denied claims that he is supporting African Democratic Congress (ADC) candidates in the upcoming bye-election on February 21, 2026.

The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) scheduled the election to fill two vacant seats in the Rivers State House of Assembly. The All Progressives Congress (APC) recently held its primaries, selecting Napoleon Ukalikpen for Ahoada East State Constituency II and Bulabari Henrietta Loolo for Khana State Constituency II.

Both candidates are closely associated with former Governor Nyesom Wike, prompting speculation that Fubara might favor ADC candidates over APC nominees. Fubara dismissed these reports, describing them as deliberate attempts to create divisions within the party.

“The APC in Rivers State is one family. These are blatant lies from the pit of hell,” Fubara said, noting that party leaders, including President Bola Tinubu, had encouraged support for the selected APC candidates during the primaries.

He criticized political opponents for spreading misinformation and assured APC members of his continued backing to secure success in the elections. Fubara also called on citizens to focus on development issues rather than political rumors.