The political landscape in Rivers State witnessed a significant shift on Friday, December 5, 2025, as the Speaker of the State House of Assembly, Martin Chike Amaewhule, publicly declared his defection from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) to the All Progressives Congress (APC).
Internal Crisis Forces Exit from PDP
Addressing the media in Port Harcourt, Speaker Amaewhule, who represents the Obio/Akpor 1 constituency, stated that the primary reason for his departure was the deepening internal crisis and divisions within the PDP. He emphasized that this move was not taken lightly but was necessary due to the party's unstable condition.
Amaewhule did not defect alone; he was joined by 15 other members of the Rivers State House of Assembly, marking a substantial realignment of political forces in the state ahead of the 2027 general elections. The speaker stressed his intention to ensure his APC membership card is issued without delay.
Praise for Tinubu and Alignment with Federal Government
In his remarks, Martin Amaewhule commended President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for his administration's programmes, which he claimed have benefited Nigerians, including the people of Rivers State. He stated that his defection would enable him to partner more effectively with the President for the overall development of the state.
"President Bola Ahmed Tinubu means well for Nigeria. He is tackling issues of security headlong," Amaewhule said, according to reports. "He has shown love to Rivers state; he is helping Rivers people to be part of the governance of this country. I am so delighted to be part of the APC so we can support the President."
This declaration aligns with a recent resolution passed by the Rivers Assembly, led by Amaewhule, urging President Tinubu to seek re-election in 2027. The motion, moved by House Leader Major Jack, commended the President for steering the country in the "right direction."
Renewed Tensions with Governor Fubara
This mass defection occurs against a backdrop of resurfacing tensions between the state legislature and Governor Siminalayi Fubara. Barely two months after the suspension of emergency rule and the reinstatement of democratic structures in the state, friction has re-emerged.
During its 31st legislative sitting, the House, under Amaewhule's leadership, condemned the alleged vandalization of property at the Township School in Port Harcourt and other schools. The lawmakers lamented the decayed infrastructure in public schools and accused the state's executive arm of doing little to address the situation.
The defection of the speaker and a significant bloc of lawmakers to the APC fundamentally alters the power dynamics in Rivers State, setting the stage for intensified political maneuvering as the 2027 elections draw closer.
