Governor Siminalayi Fubara of Rivers State has given reasons for his unexpected defection from the Peoples Democratic Party to the All Progressives Congress.
The move has stirred political conversations across the state and beyond.
According to the governor, the decision was taken to strengthen cooperation with the Federal Government.
Fubara said his switch was also meant to acknowledge President Bola Tinubu’s role in stabilising Rivers State during a tense political period.
The governor explained that aligning with the centre would help deepen governance and political balance.
Therefore, his action was presented as a strategic and deliberate choice, not an impulsive move.
The governor made the remarks during his formal reception by the APC at the Government House in Port Harcourt.
At the event, he completed the party’s membership form and was handed his APC membership card.
The delegation was led by Rivers APC Chairman, Chief Tony Okocha, and the Minister of Aviation, Festus Keyamo.
Speaking after receiving his card, Fubara openly linked his defection to President Tinubu’s political future.
“I took this decision as my return of favour; my own clearing the bush to ensure that his re-election in 2027 will be easy and smooth in this state. Now that we are all in one party, we have always supported, but from different flats we are now in one flat. The job is easier to fulfil what we have promised the President,” he said.
The governor further pledged to rebuild and strengthen the APC structure across Rivers State.
He assured party leaders that the party would now enjoy full backing from the state government.
“I want to assure you that we will do everything to keep APC as the main and active progressive party in Rivers State. From this moment, every need of the exco and the party becomes my responsibility,” Fubara added.
Moreover, he said preparations must begin immediately to mobilise strong support for the President.
He noted that the task ahead includes persuasion, conflict resolution, and grassroots engagement.
Meanwhile, party leaders welcomed the move, describing it as a major boost for the APC in the South-South.
Many believe it could reshape alliances ahead of the 2027 elections.
The move has also intensified debate about loyalty, federal influence, and party stability.
The decision, now widely discussed as Fubara defects to APC, signals a new political direction for Rivers State.
