Political tensions in Rivers State have reached a fever pitch with reports indicating a major realignment is imminent. Insiders claim that lawmakers from the Amaewhule-led faction of the Rivers State House of Assembly are preparing for a dramatic defection to the All Progressives Congress (APC).
Wike's Alleged Directive and Mounting Pressure
According to multiple political sources, the planned move is being orchestrated under the directive of the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike. This action is described as a desperate strategy for political survival. The defection is reportedly scheduled for the early hours of December 5, 2025, barring any last-minute changes.
The impetus behind this drastic step is said to be Wike's perceived decline in influence at the national level. Sources close to the matter allege that the minister is "feeling the heat" due to a noticeable dip in confidence from the presidency. This follows a series of controversies and growing unease within key power circles in Abuja.
A Shift in Presidential Calculations
Insiders pushing this narrative suggest that the presidency has begun a reassessment of Wike's political value. The belief that his hold on Rivers State politics is unshakeable has been challenged. Recent events have shown various interest groups within the state distancing themselves from the former governor, thereby weakening his perceived dominance.
Furthermore, there is a growing belief that Governor Siminalayi Fubara is now viewed as a more reliable long-term electoral asset for the national leadership. This shifting calculation has reportedly caused significant anxiety within Wike's inner circle. The fear is compounded by speculation that Governor Fubara himself might be considering a future move towards the APC.
Pre-emptive Strike to Retain Relevance
The alleged plan for the Amaewhule group to defect is seen as a pre-emptive maneuver. The goal is twofold: to retain political relevance and to demonstrate continued usefulness to the national power brokers in Abuja. By moving to the APC en masse, the lawmakers aim to secure their positions and influence ahead of any potential wider realignment.
As of now, these claims remain unverified. Neither the legislators in question nor the APC has made any official announcement regarding the defection. However, the political atmosphere in Port Harcourt is charged, with the rumor mill operating at full capacity.
Political analysts observe that if this coordinated defection occurs, it would represent one of the most significant political upheavals in Rivers State since the escalation of tensions between Wike and Governor Fubara. The next 24 hours are considered critical, potentially setting the political trajectory for the state for months to come. The consistent thread from all sources is that Wike is under intense pressure to repair his "now strained" relationship with the Presidential Villa.
