Published on 19 July 2025
In what many have described as a bold and statesmanlike intervention, Engr. Israel Fubara, an emerging political figure and passionate advocate for unity, has called on stakeholders in Andoni Local Government Area (LGA) of Rivers State to uphold fairness and equity in the rotation of the chairmanship seat.
Addressing a press conference held on Thursday in Port Harcourt, Engr. Fubara delivered a compelling appeal for justice in the zoning of Andoni’s political leadership.
The atmosphere was charged with emotion and optimism, as traditional leaders, youth groups, civil society representatives, and community elders gathered to hear Fubara speak not just as a political stakeholder, but as a unifying voice for all Andoni sons and daughters.
“Injustice anywhere weakens unity everywhere,” Fubara declared, anchoring his message on the long-standing yet now disrupted gentleman’s zoning agreement that has governed the rotation of Andoni’s chairmanship since 1998.
According to him, while other blocs have had the opportunity to complete two-term (six-year) tenures, Unyeada was only permitted a single term of three years—cut short and unreciprocated, despite its strong political presence and contributions to the development of the LGA.
“This is not a partisan campaign,” he clarified. “It is a united call to all well-meaning stakeholders, traditional rulers, political leaders, civil society and our vibrant youths, to stand for what is right.”
Fubara did not mince words in calling on both Governor Siminalayi Fubara and FCT Minister Nyesom Wike to support what he described as a correction of historical imbalance. “You are men of vision and conscience. History will record the decisions made now,” he said.
He recounted the political chronology in Andoni since 1998, stating: “Asarama was the first to benefit, completing a six-year tenure in two terms. Ngo Town followed, producing three Chairmen. The seat was meant to shift to Ataba, but due to the prolonged speakership held for 16 years, that opportunity was disrupted. Eventually, it moved to Unyeada, which was only allowed one term of three years, falling short of the standard enjoyed by others.”
Calling for restoration of fairness, Fubara declared, “Despite its significant contributions and political strength, Unyeada has not been fairly accommodated. Justice demands that the zone be allowed to conclude its rightful tenure.”
The event, which also marked the commissioning of Fubara’s new office, was described as a symbolic launch of a broader commitment to civic engagement and inclusive development.
“As I formally open this office today,” he said, “I also recommit myself to constructive dialogue, conflict resolution, and political education”, he said.
Fubara also highlighted his peace-building initiative through a community radio campaign titled “Obolo Itiki!! Itiki Iso Iyaah!”, which he described as “a call to all Andoni people to embrace unity, reject hate and place Obolo nation above politics.”
In his closing remarks, he issued a powerful appeal: “Let this be the defining moment when Andoni chose unity over division, equity over imbalance, and legacy over convenience.”