Fresh tensions have erupted within the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Rivers State following Governor Siminalayi Fubara’s defection from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) late last year. Former APC governorship candidate Tonye Cole has publicly declared that the governor joined an “illegal” faction of the party, warning that this misalignment could jeopardize his political future and risk repeating the disastrous 2019 election crisis.
In a Channels Television interview, Cole insisted that the Emeka Beke-led faction remains the only authentic and legally recognized structure of the Rivers APC, backed by a court judgment affirming its leadership. He dismissed the Tony Okocha-led group, which welcomed Fubara and issued him an APC membership card, as lacking legal standing.
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Cole stated: “Every other person who claims to be chairman or leader of APC, unless they come under that faction, doesn’t exist as far as the law is concerned… Tony Okocha is not a legally recognised faction of the APC, and that is where the problem is.”
While describing Fubara’s defection as an “astute political move” welcomed nationally, Cole warned: “Even though he is recognised nationally as a member of the APC, the group that has welcomed him is not legally recognised… He is not safe where he is.”
He urged the governor to realign with the Beke faction, cautioning against a repeat of 2019 when a court barred the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) from recognising APC candidates in Rivers.
The controversy coincides with renewed impeachment proceedings against Fubara and his deputy, Prof. Ngozi Odu, initiated by the Rivers State House of Assembly on January 8, 2026.
Lawmakers, loyal to FCT Minister Nyesom Wike, cited gross misconduct, including alleged breaches of peace accords brokered by President Bola Tinubu, refusal to present the 2026 budget, extra-budgetary spending, and withholding of funds for the Assembly Service Commission.
Speaker Martins Amaewhule described the move as “in the interest of Rivers State,” accusing Fubara of undermining legislative authority. The House adjourned plenary to January 15, with a seven-day notice of allegations to be served on the governor.
The Assembly later confirmed the process is ongoing and not suspended, despite circulating rumors. Today, New Daily Prime reported that President Tinubu has intervened, summoning Wike for urgent talks abroad (reportedly France) amid fears of escalating instability in the oil-rich state.
Sources indicate Fubara also traveled out to meet the President in France as part of de-escalation efforts. Tinubu reportedly approved Fubara’s defection and views governors as state party leaders, with APC insiders expressing dissatisfaction over Wike’s actions.
The crisis reflects deep rifts post-defection, with Wike vowing no second term for Fubara and insisting he will not be “buried politically” in 2027. Former Ekiti Governor Ayo Fayose warned that “only prayers” could save Fubara from impeachment.
As the APC consolidates in Rivers amid defections, stakeholders urge dialogue to avert unrest in the Niger Delta. The situation remains fluid, with national implications for party unity ahead of 2027 elections.
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