Rivers Guber: SEGGA Backs Lulu-Briggs, Says It’s Time for New Political Order

By Jude Opara

Ahead of the 2027 governorship election in Rivers State, the South East Good Governance Advocates (SEGGA) has thrown its weight behind the governorship candidate of the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC), Chief Dumo Lulu-Briggs, describing him as a candidate with the vision, integrity, experience and leadership qualities needed to lead the oil-rich state.

SEGGA, in a statement jointly signed by its National Coordinator, Kelechi Opara, and Promise Ezeocha, said the decision to support Lulu-Briggs was reached after a careful assessment of the political landscape and the calibre of those seeking to occupy Government House in Port Harcourt.

The group said Lulu-Briggs possesses the competence, capacity and broad-based appeal required not only to unite the people of Rivers State but also to reposition the state for sustainable growth and development.

According to the statement, Rivers State cannot afford another cycle of political conflict and profligacy occasioned by what the group described as an era of godfatherism and divisive politics. It stressed that the state needs a leader who can focus on governance, economic growth, youth empowerment and institutional development.

SEGGA stated: “Chief Dumo Lulu-Briggs has distinguished himself as a successful entrepreneur, philanthropist, community leader and advocate of peaceful and inclusive governance. His public engagements have consistently focused on restoring political stability, promoting economic growth, developing infrastructure, creating opportunities for young people and ensuring accountable leadership in Rivers State.

“Unlike many career politicians whose influence is largely tied to political structures, Dumo Lulu-Briggs has built a reputation in business, community service and human capital development, giving him a practical understanding of wealth creation, investment attraction and job creation.

“Rivers State deserves a governor who understands both governance and enterprise. Chief Dumo Lulu-Briggs represents a new generation of leadership that combines competence, vision, inclusiveness and proven capacity. His track record in business, philanthropy and community development gives him a unique advantage in addressing the economic and social challenges confronting the state.”

The group said the NDC candidate’s vision of transforming Rivers State into a major economic hub, driven by industrialisation, infrastructure, tourism, agriculture, technology and the blue economy, demonstrates a forward-looking agenda capable of unlocking the state’s enormous potential.

SEGGA also commended the peaceful emergence of Lulu-Briggs as the NDC governorship candidate and the subsequent legal affirmation of his candidacy, describing the developments as evidence of growing confidence in his leadership within the party.

The statement added that the NDC has emerged as a significant political movement in Nigeria, presenting itself as an alternative for citizens seeking a departure from old political practices and greater emphasis on accountability, national unity and people-centred governance.

“The NDC represents more than a political party; it represents the growing aspiration of Nigerians for a new political culture founded on competence, transparency, inclusion and service. Nigerians are increasingly demanding leadership that places citizens above political interests, and the NDC is providing that platform,” the group said.

SEGGA called on the people of Rivers State, particularly youths, women, professionals, artisans, entrepreneurs, traditional institutions and civil society organisations, to rally behind Chief Dumo Lulu-Briggs and the NDC in the 2027 elections.