The political landscape of Rivers State experienced a significant shift as sixteen members of the State House of Assembly formally defected from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) to the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) on Friday. This mass defection was led by Speaker Martins Amaewhule, who, along with his colleagues, announced his decision to join the APC, citing pervasive divisions within the PDP as the primary reason.

Reacting to the development, the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, clarified that he remains a loyal member of the PDP. Speaking to journalists shortly after inspecting ongoing road projects in Abuja, Wike described the defection as "very unfortunate" but acknowledged the lawmakers' right to make such a choice. He stated that while the defecting members did not consult him, their actions were permissible under the party's constitution, which allows members to leave if the party becomes factionalized. Wike highlighted that out of 27 lawmakers, 16 or 17 had defected, leaving approximately 10 members who would continue to work within the PDP. He reiterated his past advice to the PDP leadership to put its house in order and resolve internal crises, warning that the party stands to lose if its leadership challenges are not addressed.

This political realignment in Rivers State comes just days after the lawmakers had reportedly made peace with State Governor Siminalayi Fubara following a prolonged political rift and power struggle. However, prior to their defection, the 32-member Rivers Assembly had passed a vote of confidence in President Bola Tinubu and urged him to seek re-election. Lawmakers were seen on live television praising President Tinubu, notably without mentioning renewed closeness with Governor Fubara.

The APC State Chairman, Chief Tony Okocha, was present in the Assembly chambers to witness the formal defection process. Prominent among those who moved to the APC included Speaker Rt. Hon. Martins Amaewhule, Deputy Speaker Dumle Maol, House Leader Major Jack, Deputy House Leader Linda Stewart, and other members such as Wami Chile and Granville Wellington. Minister Wike emphasized his commitment to working with the remaining PDP members to ensure the party remains a relevant opposition force in the state.