The All Progressives Congress (APC) in Rivers State is actively courting suspended Governor Siminalayi Fubara to join its fold as the state prepares for a return to democratic governance.
During an appearance on Channels Television’s *The Morning Brief* on Tuesday, Rivers APC spokesman Darlington Nwauju extended an invitation to Fubara. “If I were the governor, I’d declare my defection to the APC upon my return on Thursday. We would enthusiastically welcome him into our party,” Nwauju stated.
When questioned about Fubara’s potential role in the APC, Nwauju clarified, “Per our party’s tradition, if he joins the APC, he automatically assumes leadership of the party in Rivers State.”
Commenting on the six-month administration of Vice Admiral Ibok-Ete Ekwe Ibas (retd.), the state’s interim administrator, Nwauju noted that the APC has not formally demanded a report on Ibas’ tenure. He pointed out that Ibas’ budget was approved by the National Assembly, and a House of Representatives committee is tasked with oversight. “That committee should perform due diligence and share its findings with Nigerians,” he said.
As the state approaches Thursday’s handover, marking the end of emergency rule, President Bola Tinubu and Fubara are expected to return to Nigeria on Tuesday. Tinubu, who left for a vacation in France and the UK on September 4, cut short his trip, initially set to conclude on September 10. Fubara is also due back from London, with preparations for the transition in full swing.
