In a major political realignment ahead of the 2027 general elections, the Rivers State House of Assembly has witnessed a significant shift in allegiance. The Speaker of the House, Martin Chike Amaewhule, alongside fifteen other members, has officially defected from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) to the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC).
Mass Exodus from PDP
The defection, which occurred on Friday, December 5, 2025, during a sitting of the assembly in Port Harcourt, marks one of the most substantial cross-carpeting events in the state's recent political history. The lawmakers collectively pointed to the lingering internal crisis within the PDP as the primary reason for their departure.
Speaker Amaewhule, who represents the Obio/Akpor 1 constituency, publicly declared his new political affiliation. He stated his commitment to fulfilling all necessary procedures to obtain his APC membership card promptly. This move signals a potential strengthening of the APC's foothold in the oil-rich state, traditionally a PDP stronghold, as the political landscape begins to take shape for the next electoral cycle.
Full List of Defecting Lawmakers
The development, confirmed by reports from Channels Television and The Punch, involves key figures in the state's legislature. The complete list of assembly members who have switched parties is as follows:
- Martin Amaewhule (Speaker)
- Dumle Maol (Deputy Speaker)
- Major Jack
- Linda Stewart
- Azeru Opara
- Smart Adoki
- Franklin Nwabochi
- Enemi George
- Solomon Wami
- Igwe Aforji
- Peter Abbey
- Arnold Dennis
- Tekena Wellington
- Looloo Opuende
- Chimezie Nwankwo
- Ofiks Kabang
Implications for Rivers State Politics
This mass defection is expected to have profound implications for governance and political dynamics in Rivers State. The movement of such a large bloc, including the leadership of the house, could alter the balance of power within the assembly and impact legislative agendas. It also presents a significant challenge to the PDP's cohesion and its ability to mount a formidable opposition in the state ahead of the 2027 polls.
Political analysts are watching closely to see how this realignment will influence upcoming local government elections and the strategies of both the APC and PDP at the state and national levels. The defectors' integration into the APC structure and the potential reaction from their former party are the next focal points in this evolving political saga.
