Former PDP National Chairman Uche Secondus stated that Governor Siminalayi Fubara of Rivers State leads the party in the state and should have full control of the party's structure.
Secondus made this statement while speaking to party members following a meeting of former members of the Rivers State PDP Presidential Campaign Council in Port Harcourt on Thursday.
He explained, "Governor Fubara fully controls the party structure in Rivers State. It's clear that the governor is the party leader and has complete control."
"While I was the national chairman, I granted all my governors full control of their party structures in their respective states. This cannot be any different. Governor Fubara will have complete control of the party structure."
Additionally, Secondus mentioned, "After the last election, some within the party have doubts about its loyalty, while others have engaged in anti-party activities. We are aware of those involved."
He assured the audience, "For the benefit of our state, the governor has reiterated several times that we must forgive our colleagues at the unit, ward, and local government levels, bringing everyone together."
He stressed that Fubara has expressed the need for unity without discrimination, stating, "What matters is the state's interest."
"So, we urge you as leaders – former local government chairmen, former party chairmen, and leaders in your own right – to work with others in your respective localities."
"There should be no bitterness, and nothing should hinder you from collaborating with everyone in your area. There will be a forthcoming message about the upcoming meetings and other plans."
"I also believe that there will be a time when the governor will meet everyone. Even if there are people who left the APC, we should warmly welcome them because unity is crucial for Rivers State. We need to stand against those in Abuja, and I see a similar scenario happening here. In 1983, there were influential individuals in Lagos who sought to take over the state."
"We might witness a similar scenario, but the steadfast support of grassroots leaders like you for Chief Melford Okilo made it tough for outsiders to seize control. The same will happen if they don't change their ways."
Secondus highlighted that the governor is the only person who can issue orders that will be obeyed.
He added, "The current challenges facing the ruling party, APC, show that, despite setbacks, coming together is essential. We anticipate that other individuals from different political parties will join us, and our goal is to re-elect our governor in 2027, despite those in what could be termed as IDP in Abuja. We are firmly rooted at home."
"We believe that by uniting, we can regain our governor in 2027, which is the objective of those in what I would call the IDP. They are now in IDP in Abuja. We are back home and strong on the ground."
“Our followers are prepared, and we are anticipating their arrival. They cannot seize control of this state (Rivers). This state is too powerful. Those who attempted it previously in 1983 were unsuccessful.”
