The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, FCT, Nyesom Wike, has addressed the recent defection of 16 members of the Rivers State House of Assembly from the Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, to the All Progressives Congress, APC. Speaking to journalists on Friday, Wike stated that the defected lawmakers are free to leave the PDP, citing the party’s internal crisis as a contributing factor to their exit.

The defection, which occurred during a plenary session of the Rivers State House of Assembly, saw 16 lawmakers, including Speaker Martins Amaewhule, announce their decision to join the ruling APC. Wike, who is the former governor of Rivers State, described the development as unfortunate, but acknowledged that the lawmakers have the right to make their own choices.

According to Wike, the PDP’s internal crisis has led to the party being factionalised, allowing members to leave if they so choose. He noted that while 16 or 17 members have defected, approximately 10 lawmakers remain loyal to the party. Wike expressed his intention to continue working with the remaining lawmakers, stating that they will move forward together.

The defection of the 16 lawmakers has significant implications for the political landscape in Rivers State. The PDP has been a dominant force in the state, but the loss of these lawmakers to the APC may shift the balance of power. Wike’s response to the defection suggests that the PDP will focus on maintaining its support among the remaining lawmakers and continuing to work towards its goals.

The development is also likely to have implications for the broader political scene in Nigeria, where the APC and PDP are major players. As the country navigates its political landscape, the defection of the 16 lawmakers serves as a reminder of the complex and often shifting nature of Nigerian politics. With the PDP and APC vying for power, the loyalty of lawmakers and the internal dynamics of the parties will continue to play a crucial role in shaping the country’s political future.