The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, has provided clarification regarding the recent political developments surrounding the Governor of Rivers State, Siminalayi Fubara. Wike stated that Fubara is entirely free to defect from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) to the All Progressives Congress (APC) without needing to seek permission or approval from anyone, including himself.
Despite acknowledging Fubara’s freedom to switch parties, Wike emphasised that merely joining the ruling party does not automatically guarantee Fubara a ticket to contest in the 2027 general elections. He underscored that any political aspirant must earn the mandate of the people and work diligently to secure support rather than assuming entitlement to party endorsements or electoral victories.
Fubara’s Defection to APC: Strategic Calculations Ahead of 2027
Governor Fubara formally joined the APC earlier in December following a private engagement with President Bola Tinubu in Abuja. The governor described his decision as a strategic step intended to align fully with the ruling party and offer strong support to the President ahead of the 2027 general elections. Observers view Fubara’s move as part of a broader realignment in Rivers State politics, with multiple political actors seeking to position themselves advantageously for the upcoming elections.
Fubara’s shift has sparked debates across political circles, given his prior influence within the PDP and the significance of Rivers State as a political stronghold in Nigeria. Analysts suggest that this move could reshape local political dynamics and influence candidate selections for the 2027 polls.
Minister Addresses Allegations of Bias and Political Influence
During his monthly media chat held at his Port Harcourt country residence, Minister Wike addressed accusations that he was allegedly working to favour the APC or manipulate political outcomes in Rivers State. He pointed out that the criticism was largely unfounded, highlighting that many of those who had accused him had themselves defected to APC, making their allegations contradictory.
He further explained that several members of the Rivers State House of Assembly, along with council chairmen, had previously shifted allegiance to the APC, making Fubara’s defection a predictable progression rather than a sudden or unusual event. Wike stressed that political success should be earned through effort, dedication, and public support rather than relying on party affiliation alone.
In conclusion, Wike reiterated that the political landscape in Rivers State is dynamic, and freedom of association remains a fundamental principle. While individuals like Fubara are free to make strategic party changes, their electoral success in 2027 will depend on their ability to garner popular support and prove their worth to the electorate, rather than assuming an automatic advantage simply by joining the ruling party.