Senator Magnus Abe, who ran for Governor of Rivers State under the Social Democratic Party in 2023, has officially declared his re-entry into the All Progressives Congress (APC).
Abe had defected from the APC to the SDP before the 2023 elections, where he secured the party’s ticket for the gubernatorial race. However, during a meeting with stakeholders in Port Harcourt, he revealed his decision to rejoin the APC and voiced his intention to support President Bola Tinubu’s leadership for the benefit of the people of Rivers State.
Emphasizing his commitment to the well-being of Nigerians, Abe conveyed, “The new year brings forth numerous opportunities and prospects for all Nigerians, including the people of Rivers. It is imperative for us to unite and collaborate to harness these expectations for our people.”
He further articulated, “I have summoned my people here today to brief them on pertinent matters and to announce our return to the All Progressives Congress. We aim to stand alongside other patriotic Nigerians in bolstering President Bola Tinubu’s administration. Our goal is to ensure that the people of Rivers State partake in national development and to align our state with the ongoing progress.”
Regarding his motivations for rejoining the APC, Abe clarified that it is rooted in his steadfast support for the President’s vision and the development initiatives. He elucidated, “We are rejoining the APC as founding members of the party and as grassroots proponents of the President. It is paramount that we continue to extend our unwavering support to the President’s agenda for development.”
When questioned about reconciling with those he had differences with after leaving the APC to pursue his gubernatorial aspirations, Abe affirmed his readiness to collaborate with others to ensure prosperity for the people of Rivers State. He asserted, “My return to the APC aims to foster unity and collaboration among party members for the advancement, inclusivity, prosperity, and progress of Rivers State and its people.”
Speaking on the need for unity within the party, Abe highlighted, “For the APC to thrive in Rivers State, it cannot be the personal domain of any individual. We are all strong personalities, and if we genuinely unite, no force in Rivers State can impede our progress. A common ground has been found in the APC, and there is room for everyone.”
Chief Tony Okocha, the Chairman of the State APC Caretaker Committee, extended a warm welcome to Abe, acknowledging him as a foundational member of the party. Okocha expressed this sentiment during a press interaction following his visits to the New Generation Vision Orphanage in Elelenwo, Obio/Akpor Local Government Area, and the Home for the Elderly in Port Harcourt, where he distributed provisions and provided monetary assistance.
He remarked, “In politics, the more, the merrier. Having listened to Senator Abe’s intention to rejoin the APC, we cannot hinder him.”
Senator Magnus Abe’s re-entry into the APC carries significant implications for the political landscape in Rivers State and underscores the evolving dynamics within the party.
