The political landscape in Rivers State has witnessed a significant upheaval following the defection of sixteen members of the State House of Assembly from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) to the All Progressives Congress (APC). This high-profile shift, officially announced by Speaker Martins Amaewhule during a plenary session, has drawn considerable attention and sparked reactions from key political figures.

Nyesom Wike, the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) and former Rivers State governor, characterized the mass defection as “unfortunate.” Despite this development, Wike firmly stated his continued allegiance to the PDP. Addressing journalists after inspecting an ongoing interchange bridge construction connecting Maitama, Gishiri, Jahi, and Gwarimpa in Abuja, Wike clarified that he was not privy to the lawmakers' decision but affirmed their constitutional right to make such a choice. “I’m still in the PDP. So those who have remained, we’ll continue to work together,” he declared, stressing his intent to collaborate with the remaining loyal members.

Wike used the opportunity to deliver a stern message to his party, urging the PDP to “put your house in order.” He warned that continued internal disarray would ultimately be detrimental to the party's interests. He also noted that while the defection of 16 out of 27 members was substantial, a “good number, about 10,” still remained, and his camp would continue to work with them.

The defecting lawmakers, led by Speaker Martins Amaewhule, cited deep-seated divisions and the factionalization within the PDP as the principal reasons for their move to the ruling APC. Amaewhule publicly announced his new affiliation with the APC, expressing his commitment to “join hands with Mr. President,” stating his belief that the President “means well for the country.” This assertion underscores a strategic alignment with the federal government.

Minister Wike further expounded on the legal basis for the defections, explaining, “The party is fully factionalised. And the requirement of the Constitution is that when a party is factionalised, they are allowed to leave the party.” This acknowledgment, while expressing regret over the situation, highlights the constitutional provisions that may have permitted the lawmakers' crossing of party lines. Wike's consistent call for the PDP to address its internal crises underscores the broader implications of these political realignments for the party's future in Rivers State and nationally.