The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has strongly criticized the All Progressives Congress (APC) following the defection of Rivers State Governor Siminalayi Fubara to the APC. The PDP accused the ruling party of creating the political crisis that led to Fubara’s departure. Despite this significant shift, PDP leaders at both state and national levels have asserted that Fubara’s exit does not weaken the party or alter its structure in Rivers State.
Fubara officially announced his defection during an emergency stakeholders meeting at the Government House in Port Harcourt, where he cited two main reasons for his move: the PDP’s failure to protect him and his desire to maintain his status as “His Excellency, the Governor,” which he attributed to the support of President Bola Tinubu. He emphasized that his decision was made in the interest of Rivers State and followed a meeting with the President, where he received assurances of support.
During the meeting, Fubara expressed gratitude for the President’s backing and highlighted the importance of aligning with the APC to ensure continued support for the state. He stated, “We have the positive nod to leave where we are, because we didn’t get any protection,” indicating a belief that his political survival depended on this transition.
The announcement of his defection was met with enthusiasm from his supporters, who rallied around him with chants of loyalty. Fubara ordered the removal of the PDP flag from the Government House, signaling a definitive break from his former party and a commitment to the APC. He concluded by assuring his supporters of his dedication to their cause and the state’s future under the new political alignment.
