‘I have no godfather’ – Blessing Fubara distances self from brother’s battles

Blessing Fubara, the governorship candidate for the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC) in Rivers State, recently made headlines when he publicly denied having a political godfather, emphasizing instead that his ambitions are guided solely by divine will. During an interview on Arise Television's *Prime Time* program, Fubara directly addressed rumors suggesting that his political rise was influenced by his elder brother, Governor Siminalayi Fubara. He categorically rejected these allegations, stating, "I don't have a godfather but I have God the Father." This declaration came as part of his broader effort to distinguish himself from his brother's political legacy and to assert his own independent vision for leadership.

Fubara's comments were framed within the context of the upcoming 2027 governorship election, which has become a focal point of political tension in Rivers State. The state has been embroiled in a complex power struggle involving several key figures, most notably Governor Siminalayi Fubara and former governor Nyesom Wike. The conflict began following Wike's tenure, during which he faced accusations of mismanagement and corruption. These allegations led to a rift between Wike and Fubara, resulting in a series of political maneuvers, including impeachment threats, factional disputes within the legislature, and ongoing legal battles. This environment of instability has created a vacuum where new political actors, such as Blessing Fubara, have emerged to challenge the status quo.

Blessing Fubara officially launched his campaign for the 2027 governorship in May 2026 after securing the NDC's endorsement. His entry into the race followed Governor Siminalayi Fubara's withdrawal from the All Progressives Congress (APC) governorship primaries, marking a significant shift in the political landscape of Rivers State. While the two brothers share a common surname and familial ties, their political trajectories have diverged sharply. Blessing Fubara has consistently emphasized that his political philosophy differs from that of his brother, asserting that they represent distinct ideological positions. "We have different political ideologies and individual perspectives," he told the audience, reinforcing his claim of independence.

The political dynamics in Rivers State have been shaped by deep-seated grievances among the populace, who feel marginalized by both the ruling administration and opposition groups. Fubara has positioned himself as a leader who is committed to addressing these issues head-on. In his remarks, he urged the public to refocus on the state's pressing challenges rather than getting caught up in divisive political narratives. "It’s a trying moment for us in Rivers State and there are all sorts of narratives," he said. "They come with different narratives and try to set up a perspective for the people to run with, but we are focused with our eyes on the ball that the sole of Rivers State must be rescued."

As the 2027 election approaches, the competition for the governorship is intensifying. With multiple candidates vying for the position, the outcome could significantly alter the political trajectory of Rivers State. For now, Blessing Fubara remains steadfast in his assertion that his political journey is driven by personal conviction and divine guidance, rather than any external influence, particularly from his family. Whether this stance will hold true under scrutiny remains to be seen, but one thing is certain—his campaign has already sparked considerable attention and debate.