Gift Worlu, chairman of Obio-Akpor Local Government, says Rivers leaders across party lines have resolved to work for President Bola Tinubu in 2027.

He said the resolution was taken in the overall interest of the Rivers people.

Addressing journalists in Abuja on Saturday, Mr Worlu said political actors chose cooperation over division to sustain the goodwill Rivers has enjoyed under Mr Tinubu’s administration.

He said the benefits accruing to the state informed stakeholders’ decision to put party interests aside and pursue a common agenda.

According to him, the resolve cuts across party affiliations and is driven by the need to protect peace and development.

“Politics is local; all politics is local,” he said, citing federal projects, appointments, and improved relations with the president.

“The time has come to keep parties aside and work together for the overall interest of our state and people,” Mr Worlu said.

Though a PDP member, Mr Worlu openly declared support for Mr Tinubu and said he belongs to the Renewed Hope family ahead of 2027.

He said the group includes Governor Siminalayi Fubara and is led by the FCT Minister, Nyesom Wike.

On Rivers’ political tension, Mr Worlu said responsibility for peace largely rests with Fubara.

“He has the yam and the knife; peace or conflict depends on his decision,” Mr Worlu said.

He said peace is desirable but must be anchored in justice and mutual understanding, and that sustaining it is a collective task led by the governor.

(NAN)