Distinguished Senator Allwell Heacho Onyesoh, representing the Rivers East Senatorial District, has officially announced his defection from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) to the All Progressives Congress (APC). The announcement was made during a plenary session at the National Assembly on Tuesday, where it was met with significant applause from lawmakers across various party affiliations. Senate President Godswill Obot Akpabio formally read Senator Onyesoh’s defection letter to the chamber, signaling a notable political realignment within Rivers State.

Senator Onyesoh, who currently chairs the Senate Committee on Federal Character and Inter-governmental Affairs, elaborated on his decision in a statement issued by his Adviser on Publicity and Communications, Peter Oriri. He stated that his move was primarily motivated by a steadfast commitment to continue delivering effective service to his constituents. Emphasizing his dedication, he told the Senate, “We live to make life better for others. Our lives must impact others positively.” He further explained his rationale, drawing a metaphor: “When such opportunities are obstructed, the only other thing to do is to look for another way to continue to do what you believe is right. All rivers move deliberately to the Atlantic. When they meet obstacles, they go around them and continue their journey. I am deliberate about why I am here to bring the good things of democracy to my people.”

Expressing profound disappointment with the current trajectory of the PDP, Senator Onyesoh contrasted it sharply with the party's past reputation. He lamented, “The PDP used to be a wonderful party with vision and strong values, but impunity gradually eroded everything our founding fathers built.” He specifically accused certain party leaders of routinely manipulating internal rules to serve their personal ambitions, stating, “They disobey all internal party rules just to get tickets, and the party has been reduced to a mere vehicle for personal interest.”

In a declaration of his renewed political commitment, Senator Onyesoh pledged his full support for President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda. He characterized his defection as a strategic maneuver designed to guarantee the uninterrupted delivery of democratic dividends to the people he represents. “I have moved on so that I can continue to deliver the dividends of democracy to my people,” he affirmed.

The Senate responded positively to Senator Onyesoh’s defection, with numerous lawmakers expressing confidence that his extensive legislative experience would further strengthen the work of the chamber. Many described the move as both timely and significant for the political landscape of Rivers State. Following the announcement, Senator Onyesoh was formally welcomed into the APC at the National Assembly by a high-profile delegation of party leaders. This delegation included Deputy National Chairman (North) Ali Bukar Dalori, National Secretary Surajudeen Ajibila Basiru, National Vice Chairman (South-South) Victor Giadom, and National Publicity Secretary Felix Morka, among others.