Notable Niger Delta socio-cultural group, the Orashi National Congress, ONC, has issued an open letter to the Executive Governor of Rivers State, Sir Siminalayi Fubara, expressing concerns over reports suggesting a possible replacement of the Deputy Governor, Ngozi Nma Odu, ahead of the 2027 governorship election.
In the letter signed by its President General, Emeni Ibe, the socio-cultural group described the reports as “widespread but unconfirmed,” noting that recent political developments have given weight to the speculation. These developments include the governor’s reported procurement of party nomination forms and the circulation of a purported House of Assembly list allegedly lacking the Deputy Governor’s input.
The ONC emphasized the political importance of Professor Odu, particularly in the Orashi axis comprising Ahoada East, Ahoada West, Ogba/Egbema/Ndoni, and Abua/Odual local government areas. According to the group, her influence and credibility significantly contributed to the electoral success of the current administration during the 2023 gubernatorial election.
The Congress further highlighted that its structure was fully mobilized in support of the governor’s ticket largely due to confidence in the Deputy Governor, adding that such grassroots backing remains intact.
Commending Odu’s record in public service, the ONC described her as a figure of integrity and competence whose emergence as deputy governorship candidate in 2023 was widely seen as strategic. The group also referenced her loyalty during periods of political tension within the state, noting that she stood firmly with the governor during challenging moments.
The ONC cautioned that any move to replace her could lead to political miscalculations, weaken grassroots support, and create avoidable divisions within the ruling structure. It warned against reliance on what it described as coercive political strategies or strongman influences, stressing that electoral victories are ultimately determined by voter confidence and broad-based support.
The group reiterated its position as a major grassroots mobilization structure across the 23 local government areas of Rivers State, stating that it remains aligned with the Deputy Governor and is more inclined to support any political ticket that retains her.
In its appeal, the ONC urged Governor Fubara to prioritize continuity, loyalty, and inclusiveness in his political decisions as the 2027 elections approach. It also cited President Bola Ahmed Tinubu as an example of maintaining stability within a political ticket despite external pressures.
The letter concluded with a call for careful consideration to avoid internal fractures that could benefit opposition forces, while expressing confidence in the governor’s leadership and decision-making.