Rivers Governor Siminalayi Fubara Dumps PDP, Defects to APC

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Rivers State governor, Siminalayi Fubara, has officially left the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) to join the All Progressives Congress (APC), marking a major political realignment in the South-South region.

Fubara announced his defection on Tuesday during a stakeholders’ meeting held at the Government House in Port Harcourt. The governor described his move as an act of “reciprocity” for the continuous support he said he has received from President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, especially during and after the political turmoil that engulfed Rivers State in late 2023.

“We can’t support Mr President if we don’t fully identify with him; not backyard support,” Fubara told the attendees.
“So, we have taken that decision today since we have gotten a pass. Everyone here, who followed and suffered with me, our decision today is that we are moving to APC.”

Growing Wave of Political Realignment in Rivers

Fubara’s defection comes on the heels of significant political shifts within the state. Less than one week ago, 15 members of the Rivers State House of Assembly—led by Speaker Martin Amaewhule—also defected to the APC.

In a related development, the entire 32-member Assembly recently passed a vote of confidence in President Bola Tinubu, encouraging him to seek re-election.

Impact on PDP’s National Strength

The governor’s defection reduces the number of PDP governors to six.
There are also indications that more defections may follow, with reports suggesting that Taraba State governor Agbu Kefas and Plateau State governor Caleb Mutfwang are considering moves to the APC.

Fubara’s move marks a major political victory for the ruling party and further tightens President Tinubu’s influence across the Niger Delta region.