Rivers State Governor, Siminalayi Fubara, has denied reports circulating on social media that he has defected from the All Progressives Congress to the Nigeria Democratic Congress.
The governor described the reports as false and misleading, insisting that he remains a member of the APC and has no plans to leave the party.
Fubara made the clarification while speaking with journalists on Wednesday amid growing speculation over his political future and his relationship with some leaders within the ruling party.
“I know that there has been a lot of drama in the media from one story to the other,” the governor said.
“People should stop using whatever situation they pick up from social media or their own interpretation of any situation to present me wrongly.”
The governor stressed that he remained committed to the APC and urged members of the public to ignore rumours suggesting otherwise.
“I have not gone anywhere. I’m still a member of the Congress, and I remain a member,” he stated.
“Whatever happens, what is most important is supporting the overwhelming interest of the party.”
The statement comes at a time of heightened political tension in Rivers State, where political developments have continued to attract national attention over the past two years.
Since assuming office in May 2023, Governor Fubara has remained one of the most discussed political figures in the country due to the prolonged political crisis in Rivers State.
The crisis, which involved disagreements between the governor and some political loyalists of former Rivers State governor and current Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, led to deep divisions within the political structure of the state.
The disagreement triggered a major power struggle involving members of the State House of Assembly, political appointees and party stakeholders.
At the peak of the crisis in 2023, several lawmakers loyal to Wike attempted moves against the governor, leading to tension across the state.
The political conflict also resulted in the demolition of the Rivers State House of Assembly complex after a fire incident damaged part of the building during the crisis.
Although efforts were later made by political leaders and the presidency to calm tensions, political observers say mistrust among rival camps has continued to shape politics in the oil-rich state.
Because of the prolonged crisis, rumours of possible defections by major political figures in Rivers State have become common on social media and political platforms.
In recent weeks, speculation increased after online reports claimed that Governor Fubara was preparing to leave the APC for another political platform ahead of future elections and political realignments.
However, the governor’s latest comments appear aimed at putting an end to the rumours and reassuring supporters of his loyalty to the party.
Over the years, several governors, lawmakers and other public office holders have switched political parties during disputes or ahead of elections.
Such movements usually reshape political calculations at both state and national levels.
Rivers State remains one of Nigeria’s most politically important states because of its large voting population and strong economic contribution through oil and gas production.
The state has traditionally played a key role in national politics, with major political parties investing heavily in building influence there.
Despite the governor’s denial, political watchers believe discussions about alliances and future political arrangements in the state may continue as political actors prepare for future elections.
Meanwhile, supporters of the governor have welcomed his clarification, saying it would help reduce confusion among party members and residents of the state.
Some APC members in Rivers State also called for unity within the party, urging political leaders to focus more on governance and development rather than internal disputes.
The governor’s comments also come amid ongoing debates about political loyalty and stability within Nigeria’s party system.
Critics have often argued that frequent defections weaken political ideology and make it difficult for parties to maintain clear principles.
Others, however, believe politicians have the right to change parties when disagreements become irreconcilable.
For now, Governor Fubara insists that he remains fully committed to the APC and focused on