The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, has revealed that 17 members of the Rivers State House of Assembly defected from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) to the All Progressives Congress (APC) without consulting him. Wike made this disclosure on Saturday, stating that the move significantly impacted him personally.
The mass defection, which occurred on December 5, 2023, involved the majority of the assembly members, including the Speaker, Martins Amaewhule. This event intensified the already high political tensions in Rivers State, which had recently navigated a period of emergency rule.
Adding to the political upheaval, Rivers State Governor Sim Fubara also switched allegiance from the PDP to the APC shortly after the assembly members’ defection. This exodus from the PDP followed a protracted leadership crisis within the former ruling party, creating further instability.
Speaking at the Assembly Quarters, Wike expressed his sentiments regarding the defection. “Let me thank you Mr Speaker even though it affected me with 17 of you moving out to join APC without consulting me and leaving 10 other members here,” he stated.
Wike drew a parallel to his advice to the PDP National Chairman, emphasizing the need for internal cohesion. “This is what I have always advised our National Chairman: keep your house in order so that the enemies will not come and take our people,” he remarked.
The former governor warned of external forces seeking to exploit internal party weaknesses. “The enemies are hovering around and when you are not vigilant, they take your people. That is why you must always be at alert to make sure the enemies don’t take your people,” Wike cautioned.
Addressing the remaining members of the assembly who stayed with the PDP, Wike vowed his support. He pledged to ensure that those who did not defect would not face hardship in their political careers.
“Those of you still remaining, whenever you choose, I’m here, but what I will not do is to let you suffer in your life,” Wike assured, underscoring his commitment to their well-being and future political endeavors.
