The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has called on Rivers State Governor Siminalayi Fubara to stay committed to the party, resist overtures from the All Progressives Congress (APC), and probe the governance of Rivers State during his absence as the six-month emergency rule concludes tomorrow.
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu declared a state of emergency in Rivers State on March 18, 2025, suspending Governor Fubara, his deputy, Ngozi Odu, and all elected members of the state House of Assembly. Vice Admiral Ibok-Étè Ibas (rtd) was appointed sole administrator to address the intense political crisis sparked by a feud between Fubara and his predecessor, Nyesom Wike, now Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, over control of the state’s politics and governance.
APC Courts Fubara
With Fubara set to resume office on Thursday, the APC has intensified efforts to lure him to defect. APC National Director of Publicity, Bala Ibrahim, in an interview, described Fubara as a “distinguished Nigerian” whose defection would strengthen the party’s ambition to control all 36 states by 2027. Similarly, Rivers APC spokesman Darlington Nwauju, speaking on Channels Television, urged Fubara to join the APC, stating that he would become the party’s leader in the state upon defection.
PDP Demands Loyalty and Accountability
In response, PDP Deputy National Legal Adviser Okechukwu Osuoha urged Fubara to remain loyal to the PDP and actively participate in party affairs. He emphasized the need for accountability, calling for an investigation into the state’s governance during the emergency rule. Osuoha noted that the six-month suspension, imposed under constitutional provisions, has not been extended, obligating Fubara to resume his role as governor.
Osuoha stressed the importance of fostering peace and unity in Rivers State, urging Fubara to mend ties with his political benefactors and work harmoniously with the state House of Assembly to drive development. “Party is supreme,” he said, encouraging Fubara to demonstrate unwavering commitment to the PDP to reassure Nigerians of his allegiance.
