The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, addressed the recent defection of 16 Rivers State House of Assembly members from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) to the All Progressives Congress (APC). Speaking to journalists on Friday, Wike said the lawmakers are free to leave the PDP, citing the party’s internal crisis as a key factor in their decision.
The defections occurred during a plenary session of the Rivers State House of Assembly, where 16 legislators—including Speaker Martins Amaewhule—announced their move to the ruling APC. Wike, a former governor of Rivers State, described the development as unfortunate but affirmed that the lawmakers have the right to make their own choices. He explained that the PDP’s internal crisis has fragmented the party, allowing members to depart if they wish. While 16 or 17 members have defected, about 10 lawmakers remain loyal to the PDP.
Wike said he will continue to work with the remaining loyalists, emphasizing that they will move forward together. The loss of these 16 lawmakers could significantly alter the political landscape in Rivers State, where the PDP has traditionally been dominant. Their shift to the APC may change the balance of power, prompting the PDP to focus on retaining support among the remaining legislators and pursuing its objectives.
The defections also have broader implications for Nigerian politics, where the APC and PDP are the two major parties. This episode underscores the fluid and often volatile nature of party loyalty in the country, highlighting how internal dynamics and individual decisions can shape the nation’s political future.
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