Sixteen members of the Rivers State House of Assembly have officially defected from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) to the All Progressives Congress (APC).
The development was announced on Friday during plenary by the Speaker of the House, Martin Amaewhule.
The defectors include key lawmakers such as the Deputy Speaker, Dumle Maol (Gokana), Major Jack (Akuku-Toru), Linda Stewart (Okrika), Franklin Nwabochi (Ogba/Egbema/Ndoni), Azeru Opara (Port Harcourt 3), Smart Adoki (Port Harcourt 2), Enemi George (Asari-Toru 2), Solomon Wami (Port Harcourt 1), Igwe Aforji (Eleme), Tekena Wellington (Asari-Toru 1), Looloo Opuende (Akuku-Toru 2), Peter Abbey (Degema), Arnold Dennis (Ogu/Bolo), Chimezie Nwankwo (Etche), and Ofiks Kabang (Andoni).
Speaking on the mass defection, Amaewhule said the lawmakers were leaving the PDP due to deep divisions within the party.
He confirmed he had already informed his ward of his decision and declared his full alignment with the APC.
“APC is my new party,” he said.
“I am happy to be part of the All Progressives Congress so we can join forces with Mr President.”
The Speaker praised President Bola Tinubu for what he described as significant efforts in security, national development, and support for Rivers State.
“Mr President means well for Nigeria. He has shown love to Rivers people by bringing them into national governance,” Amaewhule added.
Factional APC Chairman in Rivers State, Tony Okocha, was present at the plenary to formally welcome the defecting lawmakers.
DAILY GAZETTE notes that during the height of the political crisis in the state last year, 27 PDP lawmakers had also defected to the APC, but later reversed their decision after their seats were declared vacant by the faction loyal to Governor Siminalayi Fubara.
