2027: Ogoni Activist dares Wike, declares for Rivers governorship

2026-03-15 - 09:46

...Unveils “Operation Nehemiah” Vision for Rivers State 2027 By Daniel Abia, Port Harcourt Leader of the Ogoni Liberation Initiative (LOLI) and the Liberation Movement for Good Governance (LMGG), Dr. Fabeke Douglas, has officially declared his intention to contest the Rivers State Governorship in the 2027 election. Douglas, who previously contested the Rivers South-East Senatorial seat in 2023, made the announcement during the launch of “Operation Nehemiah,” a comprehensive initiative aimed at driving economic, spiritual, and social transformation across the state. He described the platform as the foundation of his governorship campaign, designed to harness the state’s economic potentials for rapid and inclusive development. Observers view Douglas’ declaration as a direct challenge to FCT Minister Barr Nyesom Wike, who, during his tour of 22 out of 23 local government areas in Rivers State, had stated that he would play a role in determining the next governor following Governor Siminilayi Fubara’s term, with Fubara reportedly unlikely to seek re-election despite his recent defection to the All Progressives Congress (APC). Dr. Fabeke revealed that he has already identified a political party that aligns with his ideology and plans to hold his first public political meeting soon to formally present his vision to the people of Rivers State and his supporters. Speaking to the media, the activist, who enjoys strong grassroots support among the Ogoni people, expressed confidence that his leadership would bring positive political transformation and position Rivers State as a globally competitive destination. He cited his experience as a senatorial candidate and post-2023 research as inspiration for his decision to contest the governorship. At an event in Bori, Dr. Fabeke also presented the 2026 budget of the Ogoni Community Empowerment Foundation, highlighting projects focused on developing the Global Entrepreneurship City, Ogoni, and advancing community empowerment initiatives. Since the creation of Rivers State on May 27, 1967, no Ogoni indigene has occupied the governorship. Dr. Fabeke expressed determination to break that historical barrier in 2027.