Port Harcourt, Rivers State – Rivers State Governor Siminalayi Fubara has formally left the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) to join the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC). The governor made the announcement on Tuesday during a stakeholders’ meeting at the Government House in Port Harcourt.

Alignment with President Tinubu

Speaking to supporters, Fubara said his decision was motivated by the need to fully align with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu. “We cannot genuinely support President Tinubu if we do not identify with him beyond mere backyard support,” he stated. “The decision we are taking today is that everyone who has stood by me will move to the APC.”

The move followed a reported visit by Fubara to President Tinubu at the State House in Abuja on Monday, signaling the governor’s intention to consolidate his relationship with the federal government.

Trend of PDP Governors Moving to APC

Fubara’s defection adds to a growing list of PDP governors who have crossed over to the APC in recent months. This group includes Delta State Governor Sheriff Oborevwori, Akwa Ibom Governor Umo Eno, Enugu State Governor Peter Mbah, and Bayelsa State Governor Duoye Siri. Political analysts say this trend is reshaping the country’s party landscape ahead of upcoming elections.

A History of Political Tension in Rivers State

Fubara’s switch to APC comes after a turbulent period in Rivers politics. In March, President Tinubu declared a six-month state of emergency in the state following a standoff between Fubara and members of the Rivers State House of Assembly. During the emergency rule, the governor, his deputy Ngozi Odu, and all elected Assembly members were suspended, and retired Vice Admiral Ibok-Ette Ibas was appointed as the state administrator.

Upon completion of the suspension period, Fubara returned to office, describing the emergency rule as a challenging but necessary intervention. In a statewide broadcast, he pledged to prioritize peace and reconciliation, aiming to restore stability to Rivers politics.

Looking Ahead

Political observers suggest that Fubara’s defection could influence upcoming elections and party dynamics in the South-South region. By joining APC, Fubara signals stronger collaboration with the federal government, potentially affecting policy implementation and local governance initiatives in Rivers State.