The All Progressives Congress (APC) in Rivers State has confirmed that 17 members of the state’s House of Assembly have defected from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP). According to State APC Chairman, Chief Tony Okocha, the lawmakers formally announced their decision on the floor of the Assembly during Friday’s plenary session.
Okocha, who witnessed the development, stated that the Speaker of the House, Martin Amaewhule, who is among the defectors, made the announcement. Each of the defecting members individually reaffirmed their decision to leave the PDP and join the APC. The chairman explained that the lawmakers had fulfilled all constitutional requirements for defection, including notifying the PDP in their respective wards and registering as APC members in Rivers State.
The defection comes after earlier reports of a purported mass defection of 27 lawmakers in December 2023, which Okocha clarified did not occur. He stated that he had invited the lawmakers to strengthen the APC, but the gesture was misinterpreted as an official defection. Okocha emphasized that the APC is continuing its efforts to woo the remaining lawmakers who are yet to defect, citing the PDP’s instability as a factor.
The APC chairman believes that many politicians prefer to align with a party that is more stable and nationally positioned, given the current state of the PDP. He noted that President Bola Tinubu’s efforts to grow the country are attractive to politicians, who want to be part of a party that is working to improve Nigeria. When asked about the possibility of Governor Siminalayi Fubara defecting to the APC, Okocha responded that it is unlikely for any politician to remain committed to the PDP amid its current crisis.
The defection of the 17 lawmakers is significant, as it reflects the ongoing realignment of political forces in Rivers State. The APC’s efforts to strengthen its position in the state are likely to continue, with potential implications for future elections. As the political landscape in Nigeria continues to evolve, the APC’s gains in Rivers State may have far-reaching consequences for the country’s political landscape.