Rivers State Governor, Sir Siminalayi Fubara, has publicly commended federal lawmakers from the state for their decision to defect from the opposition Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) to the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC).
A Courageous Political Realignment
Governor Fubara described the move by the legislators as a courageous, principled, and forward-looking decision. He stated that their action demonstrates a strong commitment to the collective advancement of both Rivers State and Nigeria. The governor made these remarks while formally receiving the defectors into the APC fold.
The list of lawmakers who switched parties includes two senators and several members of the House of Representatives. The senators are Senator Allwell Onyesoh, representing Rivers East, and Senator Barinada Mpigi of Rivers South-East.
In the House of Representatives, the defectors are:
- Dumnamene Dekor
- Solomon Bob
- Cyril Hart
- Victor Obuzor
- Blessing Amadi
- Felix Nwaeke
Building a United Political Front
Fubara also praised the new defectors for aligning with other politicians who had earlier crossed over to the APC in support of his administration. He mentioned earlier defections by Hon. Boniface Emerengwa, Hon. Awaji-Inombek Abiante, and Hon. Boma Goodhead from the PDP. Additionally, Hon. Umezuruike Manuchim moved from the Labour Party to the APC to show solidarity with the governor.
The governor emphasized that this wave of defections is more than just a political shift. He framed it as a strong validation of his own earlier decision to join the APC. According to Fubara, this development signals the creation of a united and strategic political front aimed at fully integrating Rivers State into the centre of national governance and decision-making.
Positioning Rivers for National Benefits
Governor Fubara argued that this new alignment will enable Rivers State to maximize opportunities for accelerated growth, inclusive development, and long-term sustainability. He linked the growing coalition in the state to the visible transformations happening under the leadership of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.
Fubara stated that the movement is fully aligned with the Renewed Hope Agenda of the Federal Government. He expressed confidence that the expanding APC support base in Rivers will contribute significantly to the success of the President's ongoing national reforms.
Looking ahead, Governor Fubara reaffirmed his unwavering resolve to deliver victory for President Tinubu in the 2027 General Elections. He called on all well-meaning people of Rivers State to join the APC. The governor said this collective effort is necessary to usher in a new era of progressive politics, peace, stability, and unprecedented prosperity for the state.
