Rivers ADC will not be pushover in 2027 – Dimkpa

Chukwudi Dimkpa, the newly elected Chairman of the African Democratic Congress (ADC) in Rivers State, has said the party won’t be pushover in the 2027 general elections.

His comment followed lingering uncertainty over Governor Siminalayi Fubara’s possible participation in next year’s elections.

Dimkpa, who was speaking after his election as ADC State Chairman in Port Harcourt, Rivers State Capital, frowned at suggestions that Nyesom Wike, Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) and Governor Fubara’s estranged godfather, would decide who becomes the next Rivers State governor.

He said the State is no one’s personal estate, adding that whoever becomes the governor is not determined by one man but by a mandate freely given by the people.

Dimkpa said the ADC was not built around one individual or interest, but seeks to ensure internal democracy, transparency and competence.

He said the party would be people-centred and not power-centred, adding that there would be no form of imposition.

Dimkpa said the party recognises the historic riverine–upland dichotomy and other sensitivities that promote political inclusion and stability in Rivers State.

He said, however, that fairness, equity, and competence must go hand in hand.

“We are committed to a transparent and consultative process that engages stakeholders across all senatorial districts and political blocs”, he said.

Dimkpa noted that the party’s goal is to produce a candidate who reflects the diversity of Rivers State, has the competence to govern effectively, and enjoys broad-based acceptance across all communities.

His election as chairman followed ward and local government congresses held across the state on Thursday, April 9, 2026, with the state congress on Saturday, April 11.

Obaro Caro Uloho, Chairman of the Rivers State Congresses Committee (RSCC), formally declared the winners, noting that the congresses were held by consensus across the 319 wards and 23 Local Government Areas.