Blessing Fubara, the governorship candidate of the Nigeria Democratic Congress in Rivers State, says his ambition isn't about power — it's about rescue. He wants to pull the state out of what he calls political instability and economic decline.
Speaking during a recent interview and a solidarity walk with supporters across the state, Fubara made one thing clear: he isn't backed by any political godfather. "I have God the Father, not a godfather," he said.
Fubara argued that Rivers State has suffered too long from political fights that have nothing to do with governance. He said residents are frustrated. Development has slowed. Attention has shifted away from the real work of running the state.
"I have God the Father, not a godfather."
The candidate said the state needs a new direction. One that restores hope, creates opportunities, and rebuilds public confidence in leadership. He described his mission as restoring Rivers State's lost potential.
Fubara criticised godfatherism in politics, saying it undermines democracy and good governance. He urged voters to reject manipulation and choose leaders who care about public welfare and service delivery.
He listed youth empowerment, women's economic inclusion, and support for small and medium-scale enterprises as key priorities. He also stressed the need to rebuild trust between government and citizens through people-centred policies.
Fubara said governance must take precedence over politics once elections are over. He promised policies that attract investment and improve living standards.
He said he remains committed to his party and will respect the outcome of the electoral process. He described his candidacy as a response to widespread demand for change in Rivers State.
Supporters who joined the solidarity walk expressed confidence in his leadership. They described him as calm and credible — someone who can deliver development and stability.
Godfatherism is a long-standing issue in Nigerian politics. In Rivers State, powerful individuals have historically controlled who gets elected and what they do in office. Fubara is positioning himself as the opposite of that model.
He said entrenched political interests have contributed to underdevelopment and instability. His message is aimed at voters who are tired of the same cycle.
The Nigeria Democratic Congress is a relatively new party, competing against established ones like the Peoples Democratic Party and the All Progressives Congress. Fubara's campaign will test whether voters are ready to break away from the old system.
The governorship election in Rivers State is scheduled for next year. Fubara will need to win over a large portion of the electorate to stand a chance against candidates backed by the state's political heavyweights.
He has started with a grassroots strategy — the solidarity walk across the state. His message is simple: vote for someone who answers to the people, not to a godfather.
Whether that's enough to win in a state known for political manipulation remains to be seen. But Fubara insists he's in it for the long haul.