In a significant political development, the Secretary to the Rivers State Government (SSG), Benibo Anabraba, has officially resigned his membership from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP). The resignation, confirmed in a letter dated 5 January 2026, is seen as a major shift in the state's political dynamics as the nation gears up for the 2027 general elections.
Anabraba's Resignation Letter Cites Personal Reasons
Anabraba formally communicated his decision to the PDP Chairman of Ward 1 in the Akuku-Toru Local Government Area. In his correspondence, he described his resignation as a personal choice. He expressed gratitude for the political opportunities and growth he experienced during his time with the party.
"My decision to resign from the PDP is personal," Anabraba stated. "I am grateful for the political leverage gained from the party during the period of my membership." The letter did not elaborate further on the specific reasons behind his sudden exit.
Speculation Swirls Over Potential Defection to APC
While the SSG has not publicly declared his next political move, strong indications from sources within Rivers State suggest he is poised to join the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC). This potential defection aligns with the ongoing high-stakes political maneuvering in the oil-rich state.
Analysts note that Anabraba's departure from the PDP is not an isolated event but part of a broader realignment. Such movements by key political figures are expected to reshape alliances and influence voter sentiment and calculations across Rivers State ahead of the 2027 polls.
Political Landscape Heats Up Amid Wike-Fubara Tensions
Anabraba's resignation occurs against a backdrop of intense political rivalry in Rivers State, notably between the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Minister, Nyesom Wike, and the state Governor, Siminalayi Fubara.
Recently, Wike launched a strong verbal attack on Governor Fubara, reminding critics that the same political structure now being disparaged was instrumental in Fubara's electoral victory in 2023. Wike has claimed that political divisions in the state are fading, asserting that there are no longer any "no-go areas" in Rivers politics.
As of the latest reports, the PDP has yet to issue an official statement regarding the resignation of one of its senior state officials. The party's response and subsequent actions are highly anticipated as stakeholders assess the full implications of this development on the party's strength and strategy in Rivers State.
