The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) on Tuesday lashed out at the All Progressives Congress (APC), alleging that the ruling party masterminded the political crisis that triggered the defection of the governor of Rivers State, Siminalayi Fubara, to the APC. The PDP argued that Fubara’s defection was not a spontaneous political realignment but part of a coordinated strategy by the ruling party to use federal influence to destabilize opposition-led states.
In a strongly worded statement, the party’s national leadership condemned what it described as a “well-orchestrated political conspiracy” that undermined democratic institutions in Rivers State. PDP maintained that Fubara’s defection does not alter its strength or structure in the state, insisting that the party remains intact despite the setback.
The party expressed contempt for what it called the abuse of “federal machinery” — accusing powerful individuals in APC of using state instruments to crush dissent and force their preferred outcome. PDP’s spokesperson cautioned that citizens of Rivers — and Nigerians more broadly — should not mistake forced political manoeuvring for genuine democratic choice.
Fubara’s departure from PDP comes just after weeks of mounting tension in Rivers, triggered by internal conflicts within the state’s chapter of the party, frequent legislative defections, and a fraught relationship between Fubara and federal authorities. The governor confirmed his switch to APC at a stakeholders’ meeting in Port Harcourt on Tuesday.
According to Fubara, the decision to join APC was driven by a desire for stability and effective governance after what he described as a failure by PDP to protect him during protracted political turbulence in Rivers State. He cited a meeting with the President at the State House in Abuja as pivotal to his decision, suggesting that alignment with the federal government would better enable his administration to serve the state.
In response to the defection, PDP has not only criticised APC’s alleged role in the crisis, but also expressed sorrow for Fubara, framing the defection as a “pitiful” outcome of institutional breakdown and betrayal of democratic norms. The party invoked the legal maxim volenti non fit injuria — “to one who is willing, no harm can be done” — suggesting Fubara voluntarily consented to the defection and bears responsibility for its consequences.
PDP further warned that the trend of defections orchestrated through pressure and inducements threatens the very foundations of Nigeria’s democracy. By allegedly replacing genuine political competition with forced allegiance, the ruling party risks marginalising opposition voices and reducing political choice for Nigerians.
For now, the defection of Fubara marks a dramatic shift in the political map of the South-South region. With Rivers now joined by other states whose governors have switched from PDP to APC, the opposition party faces a steep uphill battle to reclaim lost ground. Whether PDP can rebuild and maintain internal cohesion — or whether APC’s gains will translate into deeper political dominance — remains to be seen.
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