The Orashi National Congress (ONC) has endorsed Chief Dumo Lulu-Briggs, governorship candidate of the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC), as its preferred candidate for the 2027 Rivers State Governorship Election.
The endorsement was announced at the ONC Special Convention held in Erema on Saturday, August 15, 2026, following extensive deliberations on the political, developmental and security challenges confronting the Orashi Region and Rivers State.
According to the Congress, the decision reflects the long-standing aspiration of the Orashi people for political equity and their belief that the Rivers West Senatorial District should have the opportunity to produce the next governor of the state.
Beyond the question of senatorial rotation, however, the endorsement signals a broader demand for greater grassroots participation in determining the political future of Rivers State.
The development comes as political activities ahead of the 2027 elections continue to intensify, with alliances, defections, political structures and debates over internal party democracy and godfatherism shaping the emerging landscape.
Against this backdrop, the ONC endorsement represents a clear political statement by the Orashi people that communities must have a meaningful voice in choosing those who seek to lead them.
Chief Dumo Lulu-Briggs has consistently anchored his political aspiration on putting the people first, promoting equitable opportunities across the state’s senatorial districts and ensuring that Rivers people have the freedom to determine their leadership.
His emergence as the NDC governorship candidate has also withstood political and legal challenges, including a suit filed at the Federal High Court in Port Harcourt, which was subsequently discontinued by the plaintiff.
For supporters of Lulu-Briggs, the ONC endorsement goes beyond support for an individual candidate. It represents an expression of confidence in a different political direction and renewed calls for leadership centred on the interests and aspirations of the people.
With the 2027 election still ahead, the political landscape in Rivers State is expected to evolve significantly in the months ahead. However, the endorsement by the Orashi National Congress adds another significant voice to the state’s growing political conversation.
The message from the Orashi Region is unmistakable: put the people first and let the people decide.