The Chairman of the African Democratic Congress (ADC) in Rivers State, Hon. Dr. Chukwudi Dimkpa, has declared that the massive turnout of residents at the grand civic reception for the party’s governorship candidate, Dr. Gabriel Baritulem Pidomson, demonstrates the confidence of the people in his candidature, despite the fact that the official campaign for the 2027 governorship election has not commenced.
Speaking on Saturday at Gberedeela Playground, Bodo City, during a grand civic reception organised in honour of Dr. Pidomson following his emergence as the ADC governorship candidate, Dimkpa described the gathering as a strong indication that the people of Bodo and Gokana were ready to rally behind their son.
“The people of Bodo have demonstrated that they are ready to produce the next Governor of Rivers State. The massive turnout here today is a statement of acceptance. Campaign has not even started, yet the people have spoken. This is purely a homecoming reception for our candidate,” he said.
The event attracted thousands of party faithful, traditional rulers, elders, women, youths and supporters, who thronged the venue to welcome the ADC standard-bearer in what many described as one of the largest political gatherings recently witnessed in the area.
Despite heavy rainfall, residents lined major roads to receive Dr. Pidomson and members of his entourage, turning the 9.7-kilometre procession from Kpopie Junction to Bodo City into a colourful street carnival marked by singing, dancing and chants of solidarity.
Earlier, the governorship candidate, accompanied by his running mate, the Rivers State Chairman of the ADC and other party leaders, paid a traditional homage to the Paramount Ruler of Bodo, His Royal Highness John Bariiyedum Bebor Berebon, Gberedeela VIII, at his ancestral palace.
During the visit, traditional rites and prayers were performed by the royal father and chiefs to bless and strengthen Dr. Pidomson ahead of the 2027 governorship election.
Addressing the gathering, Chairman of the ADC Gokana Homecoming Planning Committee, Anthony Biragbara, thanked the people of Gokana for what he described as an unprecedented display of love, solidarity and support for the party and its governorship candidate.
“We sincerely appreciate the people of Gokana for today’s historic turnout. The overwhelming support shown to our candidate reflects the people’s desire for genuine progress, selfless leadership and meaningful development in Rivers State. Today’s gathering has sent a strong message that the time for positive change is now,” Biragbara said.
He assured supporters that the ADC remained committed to people-centred governance, promising that the welfare and aspirations of Rivers people would remain at the heart of the party’s agenda.
“We promise that your voices will always matter. Your welfare will remain our priority, and our commitment to transforming Rivers State will never waver. We thank our governorship candidate for honouring the invitation to return home and identify with his people,” he added.
Several community stakeholders who spoke at the reception described Dr. Pidomson as a distinguished son of Bodo whose philanthropy, humility, peaceful disposition and commitment to community development have earned him widespread respect across Ogoniland and beyond.
The ceremony featured traditional prayers by the council of chiefs, colourful cultural performances by the Amanikpo Music Group, Elumelu Cultural Group and other indigenous dance troupes, reflecting the rich cultural heritage of Bodo.
Post a Comment