Former Niger Delta militant leader and Amanyanabo of Torusarama-Piri, Asari Dokubo, has pledged his support for President Bola Tinubu’s 2027 re-election bid.
Dokubo made the declaration on Tuesday when he received the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, at his palace in Degema Local Government Area of Rivers State. Wike’s visit formed part of a year-end “thank-you” tour across Rivers State, aimed at appreciating grassroots supporters and canvassing further backing for Tinubu ahead of the 2027 general elections.
Commending Wike for the visit, Dokubo recalled Tinubu’s support during his difficult periods, saying it was now his turn to stand by the president. “Everything that I am capable of doing, I will do to make sure that he succeeds. He stood by me in my most difficult period, and it is now my turn to also stand by him and support him,” he said.
Dokubo, who was installed as a traditional ruler in late 2024, noted that he never expected to attain his current position when he first met Tinubu in 1992, emphasizing the personal bond between them.
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Speaking earlier, Wike said his visit was to thank the people for their support, wish them a happy new year, and canvass for Tinubu’s re-election. “I know that traditional rulers don’t play politics. You are my friend, and I felt that there’s no way I would come here, where you reside, to your kingdom, without coming to greet you and say happy new year,” he said.
The interaction highlighted the continued influence of traditional rulers and community leaders in shaping political alliances in the Niger Delta ahead of the 2027 elections.