Rivers State Governor Siminalayi Fubara has broken his silence on the ongoing crisis within the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), making a startling declaration about the political landscape in the oil-rich state.
Fubara's Movement Declaration
In a brief video statement released on Monday, Governor Fubara stated that there is no longer any political party operating in Rivers State. Instead, he described the current political structure as a 'movement' that has replaced traditional party politics.
The governor's comments came as a direct response to the outcomes of the PDP national convention held in Ibadan, Oyo State, on Saturday, November 15, 2025. This convention saw significant developments that have further deepened divisions within Nigeria's main opposition party.
Wike's Expulsion and Party Fallout
During the contentious convention, Nyesom Wike, the immediate past governor of Rivers State and current Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), was expelled from the PDP. Wike, who continues to serve as a minister under President Bola Tinubu's All Progressives Congress (APC) administration, has been accused of engaging in anti-party activities.
The expulsion has created wider ramifications for the party's unity, particularly in Rivers State where Wike maintained significant political influence despite serving in an APC-led government.
Governor Fubara did not mince words when addressing the situation, stating clearly: 'The party has failed us here'. He explained that his administration and supporters are now operating outside conventional party structures.
Nigerians React to Political Shift
Fubara's declaration has sparked immediate reactions across Nigeria's political landscape. Social media platforms and political circles have been buzzing with commentary on the governor's bold statement.
One commenter, Agba Oye, criticized the ruling party's influence, suggesting that 'Tinubu dismantled the once biggest political party in Africa'. Another commenter named Ade expressed sympathy for Fubara's position, noting that 'When he was bullied by Wike and Tinubu, the PDP didn't stand by him'.
Jerry, another respondent, supported Fubara's assessment, stating: 'I totally agree with Gov. Fubara when he said that the party has failed them. PDP failed him personally. PDP failed in Rivers state. PDP failed Nigerians and democracy'.
The governor's complete statement read: 'You know, in our state today, we are no longer doing a party, we are doing a movement. So, don't blame me if I am not on the side of the party. The party has failed us here. So, what we are doing now is to stand with our two legs'.
This development comes amid broader speculation about potential defections from the PDP to the ruling APC, with former Ekiti State governor Ayodele Fayose recently mentioning several PDP governors who might be considering switching parties.
