‎2027: Fubara’s support group collapses structure into Rainbow Coalition

In 2027, a political-pressure group based in Rivers State, known as Rivers Women Unite for Sim (RWUS), announced its dissolution and integration into broader political movements, including the Renewed Hope Agenda family and the Rainbow Coalition under the leadership of Chief Nyesom Wike, the Minister of Federal Capital Territory. The decision came amid heightened preparations for the upcoming 2027 general elections, with a particular emphasis on empowering women through increased political participation. The collapse of RWUS was formally declared during a monthly prayer meeting held in Port Harcourt, where the group's convener, Mrs. Sotonye Toby-Fulton, addressed members with a focus on securing Permanent Voter Cards (PVCs). She emphasized that without these cards, women could not fully engage in the electoral process. Toby-Fulton urged attendees to obtain permanent PVCs rather than relying on temporary ones, stressing that the PVC represented both empowerment and agency. “Your PVC is your power to make a difference,” she stated, adding that women should not be deterred by challenges or financial pressures. “Do not sell it for 500 naira,” she cautioned, warning against the commodification of votes. Toby-Fulton also encouraged resilience and faith, telling women to remain calm and steadfast in the face of adversity. “God is not going to come down and cast votes for us,” she said. “It is in our hands. It is in our power.” Her remarks were met with a sense of urgency, as the group prepared for the 2027 polls. “When you are challenged, when you have any kind of worries, tell yourself, ‘Peace be still,’” she advised, invoking spiritual resolve alongside political action. Adata Bio-Briggs Esq, the former chairperson of the Federation of International Women Lawyers (FIDA) in Rivers State, echoed these sentiments. She reiterated the importance of obtaining PVCs as a prerequisite for meaningful political engagement. “We’ve been preaching this message for a long time,” she said. “The PVC is what will give you the access that you need, what you need for good government and everything.” Without such access, she argued, efforts toward reform would be futile. “Without that PVC, all this thing we’re talking, we’re just playing,” she added, urging collective mobilization. Dr. Caroline Okpokiri, another key figure within the group, pledged that women would play a central role in the upcoming election campaigns. She highlighted the potential impact of female voters, noting that mothers could influence both their families and spouses. “As mothers, we have children that we can influence at home,” she said. “As mothers, we can also influence our husbands when it is time to vote.” Her comments underscored the strategic importance of women’s participation in shaping political outcomes. The restructuring of RWUS into larger coalitions reflects a broader trend of grassroots organizations aligning with national political movements. This shift appears to be driven by the desire to amplify local voices within a wider political framework. As the 2027 elections approach, the focus remains on ensuring that women are equipped to exercise their right to vote effectively. With the final countdown underway, the message is clear: preparation, participation, and protection of voting rights are essential steps toward achieving political representation and societal change.