The governorship aspirant of the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC) in Rivers State, Blessing Fubara, has denied claims that he is fronting for the State Governor,  Sir Siminalayi Fubara over the 2027 governorship election.

In a radio  interview monitored in Port Harcourt, Blessing admited his family relationship with the governor but made it clear that both of them operate with different political beliefs and ambitions.

Blessing said his decision to contest the governorship race was not influenced by the current political situation in the state or speculation surrounding the governor’s future political plans.

He declared: ” Oh yes, I am Fubara. I am related to the governor, but we share different political ideologies, aspirations and visions for Rivers State.”

There has been growing speculation in political circles in Rivers State that Blessing”s emergence in the NDC is part of a broader strategy to create an alternative political platform for the governor amid the lingering crisis in Rivers politics.

The rumours became rife following reports that the governor may distance himself from his current political structure as tensions continue between him and the Minister of Federal Capitsl Territory , Nyesom Wike.

Blessing further explained that his governorship ambition has been  conceived long before the recent political developments in the state.

He also said that he has been consulting with stakeholders and supporters across the State for some time and remained committed to pursuing what he described as a mission to restore purposeful leadership in the state.

The governorship aspirant also criticised the nature of politics in Rivers State, saying political loyalty has overshadowed governance and development.

He added that many young people in the state have become trapped in what he described as “survival politics,” where allegiance to political figures is often prioritised above economic empowerment and meaningful opportunities.

 In addition, he stated that Rivers people deserve leadership driven by ideas, development and accountability rather than personal political battles.

When asked whether Governor Siminalayi is aware of his governorship ambition, the aspirant declined to provide details of private discussions they have had, noting that consultations are still ongoing.

The development comes amid continued political uncertainty in Rivers State, where the rift between Governor Siminalayi and Wike has continued to shape the political atmosphere of  the stste since 2023.

Blessing insisted that he is not a placeholder for Governor Siminalayi  adding that both of them are operating on different lanes as far as the politics of Rivers State is concerned.