In a significant political development, the Rivers State chapter of the All Progressives Congress (APC) has extended an invitation to suspended Governor Siminalayi Fubara to join their party if he chooses to leave the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP).
Chief Emeka Beke, reinstated as Rivers APC Chairman, in an interview with Journalists on Tuesday, affirmed the party’s readiness.
“Sure, we will welcome the governor. Do we have an option? Welcoming the governor into the party will mean the APC gains a strategic advantage in Rivers State,” Beke declared. He pointed out the difficulties governors face when their party is not in power at the federal level, including challenges in funding and governance.
Beke further elaborated, “As the governor of Rivers State, he automatically becomes the leader of the party at the state level. This would also allow the APC to play a key role in state programmes and functions.” He expressed willingness to guide Fubara on governance improvements, a shift from their previous stance as opposition.
Meanwhile, the Rivers State Elders and Leaders Council has distanced itself from political affiliations, focusing on the governor’s return. Anabs Sara-Igbe criticized the appointment of Vice Admiral Ibok-Ete Ibas (retd.) as Sole Administrator, labeling it unconstitutional. He dismissed speculation about Fubara’s party switch, emphasizing, “We are not interested in any party. What we want is Sim’s return.”
Fubara’s media aide, Jerry Omatsogunwa, confirmed ongoing reconciliation talks with former political mentor Nyesom Wike but declined to comment on defection rumors.
