Senate President Godswill Akpabio has declared that any political conspiracy against President Bola Tinubu is bound to fail, affirming strong backing from the Niger Delta ahead of Tinubu’s 2027 re-election bid.
Speaking at the grand finale of the Niger Delta Development Commission’s (NDDC) 25th anniversary in Port Harcourt on Saturday, Akpabio said the region is united in support of the President due to his significant investments and commitment to development.
“They conspired to remove our son, Goodluck Jonathan, but this time the entire Niger Delta has resolved to speak with one voice. No conspiracy against Tinubu will succeed,” he said.
In a statement released Sunday by his media aide, Anietie Ekong, Akpabio praised Tinubu’s contributions, citing the establishment of institutions such as the University of Environmental Sciences in Ogoni, the Maritime University in Okerenkoko, and other tech and agriculture-focused schools.
“No President has done more for the Niger Delta,” Akpabio said, adding that the region, which generates the nation’s wealth, must have a say in its leadership.
The event was attended by former President Goodluck Jonathan, Secretary to the Government of the Federation George Akume (representing Tinubu), Rivers State Administrator Admiral Ibokette Ibas (rtd), lawmakers, ministers, traditional leaders, and other stakeholders.
Akpabio also criticized past instability within the NDDC, blaming political interference for over 14,700 abandoned projects. He coined the term “periwinkle politics” to describe petty rivalries that undermined progress.
“Each new leadership abandoned ongoing projects. As minister, I had to push for the completion of the NDDC headquarters, which was stalled for over 20 years,” he said.
However, he praised the current NDDC board, led by Dr. Samuel Ogbuku, for prioritizing continuity and results. He also commended President Tinubu for allowing the board to serve its full term.
Former President Jonathan echoed that sentiment, describing the board’s continuity as key to sustainable development.
Delivering President Tinubu’s goodwill message, SGF Akume reiterated the administration’s commitment to the region, highlighting the Lagos-Calabar Coastal Highway as a landmark project aimed at boosting trade and regional integration.
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