The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Rivers State has dismissed concerns over rumours that Governor Siminalayi Fubara may be defecting to the All Progressives Congress (APC).
Robinson Ewor, the Rivers State PDP Chairman, stated that the party is not disturbed by the speculation, emphasising that any decision made by Governor Fubara is a personal matter. According to Ewor, the governor has the legitimate right to pursue any political interest he believes serves the overall welfare of the people of Rivers State, who elected him.
Ewor added, “Whatever decision the governor takes is personal. As an individual, he has every right to take any political step he deems fit, provided it benefits the Rivers people above all other interests.”
The rumours of Governor Fubara’s potential defection gained traction during the six-month emergency rule imposed on Rivers State from 18 March to 18 September. It was alleged that, as part of a peace agreement reportedly signed by Fubara in June, he would defect to the APC.
However, Ewor stated that he is unaware of any such plan and has not been informed by the governor of any intention to leave the PDP.
Further fuelling speculation was Governor Fubara’s recent public appearance with Senator Hope Uzodimma, the chairman of the APC Governors’ Forum and Governor of Imo State. The two were seen escorting Fubara to the office of Bola Tinubu, APC National Leader, on Monday.
Adding to the controversy, during his statewide broadcast on Friday, 18 September, when he resumed duties after the emergency rule, Governor Fubara notably failed to acknowledge or credit the PDP for efforts in restoring democracy to Rivers State. This omission was particularly striking given the PDP’s active opposition to the emergency rule declared by the federal government.
At least 11 PDP governors had previously challenged the APC-led federal government’s decision in court, seeking the reversal of the emergency declaration. The move also drew criticism from prominent Nigerians who labelled the state of emergency in Rivers State as “highly unconstitutional.”
As of now, the Rivers PDP maintains its position of confidence in Governor Fubara, while the governor himself has yet to make any formal statement regarding his political future.
