Rivers State Governor, Siminalayi Fubara, has explained why he left the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), the party that brought him into office, and defected to the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC). The governor said the decision was not only political but also a “spiritual assignment” aimed at ensuring the peace, progress, and development of Rivers State.
Fubara announced his defection earlier in the week, ending months of speculation about his political future. He formally received his APC membership card on Friday at the Government House in Port Harcourt from the APC Chairman in Rivers State, Chief Tony Okocha.
During the brief ceremony, Governor Fubara said his decision was guided by the need to work closely with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and support his re-election bid in 2027. According to the governor, aligning with the president will give Rivers State a stronger voice in national politics and secure more benefits for its people.
Speaking after receiving his membership card, Governor Fubara described his move as one backed by divine direction.
“In truth, this is a spiritual assignment because it concerns the safety, progress, and growth of Rivers State,” he said. “We cannot be going in one direction while the President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria is going in another. To ensure unity and development, we must align.”
He explained that joining the APC will help his administration maintain a smooth and effective relationship with the federal government at this critical time.
According to him, “Joining the APC is part of our commitment to ensure a seamless working relationship and to contribute meaningfully to President Tinubu’s re-election efforts in Rivers State.”
Governor Fubara’s defection marks a major shift in the political landscape of Rivers State, which has been a stronghold of the PDP since 1999. The state has produced several influential PDP leaders, including former governor Nyesom Wike, who is now the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory but remains a powerful political figure in the state.
Rivers politics has been tense since Fubara assumed office in May 2023. The governor has been locked in a long-running political dispute with Wike, his predecessor and former political godfather. The crisis has involved clashes over control of the state’s political structure, impeachment attempts by lawmakers loyal to Wike, and disputes over local government administration.
Fubara stressed repeatedly that his move to the APC was driven by the interest of the state rather than personal ambition. He said Rivers State must work hand in hand with the federal government to attract development projects, investments, and federal support.
According to the governor, “Rivers State must not be isolated. We are part of the Nigerian federation, and it is important that we maintain a harmonious relationship with the presidency for the good of our people.”
President Tinubu’s administration has been encouraging political leaders across the country to collaborate regardless of party differences, especially in states facing internal political crises. Many analysts see Fubara’s defection as a sign that the presidency is taking a more direct role in stabilising Rivers politics.
APC Chairman in Rivers State, Chief Tony Okocha, welcomed the governor enthusiastically and described his joining the party as a “huge blessing and a turning point” for APC in the state.
He assured Governor Fubara that the party would stand by him and work closely with his administration to ensure peace and development in the state.
Okocha said, “Your decision to join the APC has brought new hope and energy. We are proud to have you, and we will support you fully as you lead Rivers State.”
Governor Fubara also promised to strengthen the APC in Rivers State, saying he would support the party’s structure, leaders, and members at all levels. He assured the party that he was ready to fully participate in its growth and activities.
“This is now your home, Mr Chairman,” the governor said to Okocha. “You are welcome here anytime. We will keep the APC active and fully functional in Rivers State, and every need of the party will be taken care of.”
Governor Fubara is not the only prominent politician to defect in recent months. Nigeria has witnessed a wave of defections since 2023, as politicians realign themselves ahead of the 2027 general elections. In many cases, defections are driven by the desire to be closer to the federal government, secure political survival, or position themselves for future elections.
Defections are common in Nigerian politics. As elections approach, political figures often switch parties to strengthen their chances or align with perceived political forces. With the APC controlling the presidency, it has become attractive for many politicians seeking influence and federal support.
The governor’s defection has triggered mixed reactions among Rivers residents and political observers. Some believe the move will help bring peace to the state and attract more development. Others worry it may deepen political tensions, especially with the PDP base in the state still strong.
A Port Harcourt-based analyst said, “Fubara’s defection is not surprising. He needs federal backing to survive politically. But this may also change the political balance in Rivers and create new rivalries.”
Several civil society groups have called for peace and urged the governor and other political actors to avoid actions that could raise tensions or disrupt governance.
Governor Fubara’s move to the APC marks a new chapter for Rivers State. Whether the defection will bring unity or spark new political battles remains to be seen. For now, the governor insists his decision is guided by the interest of the state and his commitment to work closely with President Tinubu.