Rivers State Governor, Siminalayi Fubara, has officially defected from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) to the All Progressives Congress (APC), ending months of speculation about his political future.
The governor made the announcement on Tuesday during a high-level stakeholders’ meeting at the Government House in Port Harcourt, describing the decision as one taken after “deep reflection” and “in the best interest of Rivers people.”
“Today, I formally announce my decision to join the All Progressives Congress,” Fubara declared. “This is not a move made lightly. It is a step I have taken after deep reflection, guided by my commitment to peace, stability, and the progress of our dear state.”
His defection comes amid rising political tension in the oil-rich Niger Delta region and follows a visit to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu at the Presidential Villa just 24 hours earlier—an engagement many observers interpreted as a final confirmation of his political alignment.
Fubara acknowledged the evolving political dynamics in the state, noting that collaboration with the Federal Government would enhance development outcomes.
“Rivers State must remain aligned with the centre to attract the support and partnership needed for meaningful growth,” he said. “I believe this platform gives us the best opportunity to consolidate the progress we have made.”
The governor’s switch to the APC mirrors recent developments in the Rivers State House of Assembly, where several lawmakers also dumped the PDP for the ruling party, deepening the realignment of political forces in the state.
With this move, Fubara joins the growing list of PDP governors who have crossed over to the APC ahead of the 2027 general elections, signalling what analysts describe as a significant reconfiguration of Nigeria’s political landscape.
