Asari Dokubo, the former militant leader and current Amanyanabo of Torusarama Piri in Degema Local Government Area, has publicly pledged his unwavering support for President Bola Tinubu ahead of the 2027 presidential election. His declaration came during a high-profile meeting at his palace, where he received the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, alongside key members of the Rivers State Elders Council. The minister’s visit formed part of his ongoing “thank you tour,” aimed at appreciating traditional leaders and community stakeholders for their roles in supporting the administration during the 2023 general elections.
During the engagement, Dokubo emphasised that his backing of President Tinubu is not merely symbolic but comes with an active commitment to mobilising grassroots support across Rivers State and beyond. Speaking passionately, he highlighted the personal history and bond that underpin his loyalty, explaining that the president had stood by him during particularly challenging periods in his life, and now it is his turn to reciprocate that support. He stated, “Everything that is going to happen, I will be with you in making sure that my friend, the President, succeeds. Everything I am capable of doing, I will do to ensure his success.” This statement resonated strongly with attendees and onlookers, who acknowledged the weight of Dokubo’s influence within his community and the broader Niger Delta region.
Reflecting on their long-standing relationship, Dokubo recounted the early days of his friendship with Tinubu, noting that when they first met in 1992, he was not yet a traditional ruler and had no expectation of the status he enjoys today. He credited Tinubu’s support during his most difficult times as a key motivator for his present commitment, saying, “I was not a traditional ruler when we met in 1992. I never imagined I would become what I am today. He stood by me in my most difficult period, and now it is my turn to stand by him.” His words underscored a theme of personal loyalty and gratitude that transcends conventional political alliances, reflecting the deep interpersonal bonds that often shape Nigerian politics.[/p]
During the visit, Nyesom Wike also addressed the gathering, highlighting the importance of collaboration with traditional leaders in achieving political goals and sustaining community development. He acknowledged the warm reception of his tour across the local government areas and praised the support extended by the residents and community leaders during the 2023 general elections. Wike stressed that the friendship he shares with Dokubo goes beyond politics, illustrating the value of personal relationships in navigating political landscapes. “You are my friend, and there is no way I would come to your kingdom without greeting you and wishing you a happy new year. Here, we have shut the door. No other person other than Bola Ahmed Tinubu. Just follow our steps and the right thing will be done,” he said.
Wike further assured the people of Rivers State that past irregularities in the 2023 governorship election would be addressed, reflecting a broader commitment to accountability and governance reforms. He underscored the significance of the current political collaboration between the two major parties in the state, asserting that their joint focus is on ensuring the success of President Tinubu in 2027 rather than partisan rivalry. “This is the only state where the two major political parties are working together to return Tinubu in 2027. That is why we are no longer talking about party politics but about renewed hope,” Wike added, highlighting a strategic political realignment intended to consolidate support for the president and foster unity among stakeholders.
In conclusion, Dokubo’s public declaration and Wike’s assurances signal a strong and coordinated push by influential political figures and traditional leaders in Rivers State to back President Tinubu in the upcoming election. The events at Torusarama Piri palace not only reinforced personal loyalty and political commitment but also emphasized the ongoing efforts to engage communities, strengthen alliances, and mobilize support ahead of the critical 2027 presidential race, reflecting the intricate interplay between local leadership, grassroots influence, and national political strategy in Nigeria.
[/p]