By Our Correspondent

National News – The All Progressives Congress (APC) has disqualified four loyalists of Rivers State Governor Siminalayi Fubara from contesting the House of Representatives primaries scheduled for Saturday, May 16, 2026.

The decision was contained in the party’s final screening list released in Port Harcourt on Friday, May 15, 2026.

It affects key aspirants across several Rivers constituencies ahead of the exercise.

The party also cleared 21 aspirants for the primaries. Among them is Rivers State House of Assembly Speaker Martin Amaewhule, who is contesting the Obio/Akpor Federal Constituency seat.

He is seeking to replace Minority Leader Kingsley Chinda. The APC said the screening was guided by internal party rules aimed at ensuring credible candidates and strengthening its electoral chances.

The disqualified aspirants include Awaji-Inombek Abiante and Boma Goodhead, both serving members of the House of Representatives, alongside retired Air Commodore John Opera and Hon. Anderson Igbiki.

The party confirmed the final list was approved by its national leadership. The development highlights growing political tension and shifting alliances within the Rivers APC structure.

Party spokesperson Chibike Ikenga stated that all aspirants must adhere strictly to the final list ahead of the primaries.

He explained that the process is essential for discipline, order, and unity within the party.

The cleared aspirants are expected to participate in delegate voting scheduled for Saturday, May 16, 2026, across constituencies in Rivers State.

Analysts believe the outcome could reshape political dynamics in Rivers ahead of the 2026 general elections.

It reflects ongoing rivalry between major factions and may influence voter alignment, candidate strength, and party cohesion in key constituencies across the state.