Governor Siminalayi Fubara of Rivers State has officially defected to the All Progressives Congress (APC), ending his long-standing membership in the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP).
He made the announcement on Monday during a stakeholders’ meeting at the Government House in Port Harcourt.
Speaking before political leaders, senior officials, and invited groups, Fubara declared:
“Siminalayi Fubara has defected to the All Progressives Congress (APC).”
His move has triggered mixed reactions across the state, especially as Rivers continues to grapple with political tension and leadership disputes.
Why Fubara Left PDP
Governor Fubara said his decision was driven by the need to create a more stable environment to govern effectively.
According to him, internal conflicts within the PDP had stalled progress and distracted from the core responsibilities of his administration.
He stated that it was time to focus fully on delivering the development projects and reforms he was elected to carry out.
APC Welcomes Fubara
APC leaders in Rivers State are expected to hold a formal reception for the governor in the coming days.
Early reactions from party members describe his defection as a major political gain for the APC in the South-South region.
PDP Yet to Respond
The PDP has not released an official statement on the development. However, sources say emergency consultations are underway to assess the implications of losing a sitting governor.
Tinubu Meeting Fuels Speculation
Fubara’s defection follows his recent meeting with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu on Monday — a meeting many believe played a key role in the political shift.
Background
The governor has been locked in a prolonged conflict with members of the Rivers State House of Assembly, a crisis that deepened internal divisions in the PDP.
His move to the APC appears to be the latest major development in that ongoing political battle.
Related: Obasanjo to FG: Stop Apologizing and Negotiating With Terrorists
