Rivers State Governor, Sir Siminalayi Fubara, has commended members of the National Assembly from the state who on Tuesday defected from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) to the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC), describing their move as bold, principled and forward-looking.
The governor said the decision by the lawmakers reflects a strong commitment to the overall development of Rivers State and the nation, noting that it demonstrates a shared resolve to pursue progress through strategic political alignment.
Among the defectors are two senators—Allwell Onyesoh, representing Rivers East, and Barinada Mpigi of Rivers South-East—as well as House of Representatives members Dumnamene Dekor, Solomon Bob, Cyril Hart, Victor Obuzor, Blessing Amadi and Felix Nwaeke.
Governor Fubara also acknowledged earlier defectors who had previously aligned with his administration and the APC, including Boniface Emerengwa, Awaji-Inombek Abiante and Boma Goodhead, who moved from the PDP, as well as Umezuruike Manuchim, who joined the APC from the Labour Party.
He said the latest defections further validate his own decision to align with the APC, stressing that the growing coalition signals the emergence of a united political front aimed at positioning Rivers State at the centre of national governance.
According to the governor, the alignment will enable the state to leverage greater opportunities for rapid growth, inclusive development and long-term sustainability.
Fubara added that the expanding support base mirrors the reforms being implemented by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and aligns with the Federal Government’s Renewed Hope Agenda.
He expressed confidence that Rivers State would play a key role in supporting the success of the President’s programmes.
The governor reaffirmed his commitment to mobilising support for President Tinubu ahead of the 2027 general elections and urged residents of Rivers State to embrace the APC in the interest of peace, stability and sustained prosperity.
