SIXTEEN LAWMAKERS IN THE RIVERS STATE HOUSE OF ASSEMBLY HAVE TODAY DUMPED THE PDP AND CROSSED OVER TO THE APC

SIXTEEN LAWMAKERS IN THE RIVERS STATE HOUSE OF ASSEMBLY HAVE TODAY DUMPED THE PDP AND CROSSED OVER TO THE APC | #RWGBLOG

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Days After Passing a Vote of Confidence in Tinubu, Sixteen Rivers Lawmakers Defect From PDP To APC As Speaker Leads Mass Exit

Sixteen members of the Rivers State House of Assembly have announced their defection from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) to the All Progressives Congress (APC). Speaker Martin Amaewhule disclosed the development during plenary on Friday, adding that he too had formally left the PDP.

“Distinguished colleagues, very happily, let me announce that your speaker has decided and has indeed written to my ward chairman of my decision to leave the PDP. APC is my new party,” Amaewhule declared. He added that he would complete all necessary procedures to receive his APC membership card. “As we speak today, I am a member of the APC so that we can join forces with Mr. President.”

He praised President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, saying the Nigerian leader “is doing so much for this country,” especially in security, and has “shown love to Rivers State.” Amaewhule said divisions within the PDP prompted his defection. The lawmakers who joined the APC alongside the speaker include Dumle Maol, Major Jack, Linda Stewart, Franklin Nwabochi, Azeru Opara, Smart Adoki, Enemi George, Solomon Wami, Igwe Aforji, Tekena Wellington, Looloo Opuende, Peter Abbey, Arnold Dennis, Chimezie Nwankwo, and Ofiks Kabang.

The move comes two days after the 32-member assembly passed a vote of confidence in President Tinubu and urged him to seek re-election, following a motion by House Leader Major Jack. On March 18, Tinubu declared emergency rule in Rivers State amid a prolonged political crisis, suspending Governor Siminalayi Fubara, Deputy Governor Ngozi Odu, and all assembly members for six months. The emergency rule was lifted on September 17, 2025.

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