The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has condemned the defection of Rivers State Governor, Siminalayi Fubara, to the All Progressives Congress (APC), describing the move as “self-inflicted” and a danger to Nigeria’s democratic stability.
In a statement issued on Tuesday by its National Publicity Secretary, Ini Ememobong, the PDP said Governor Fubara’s political decisions directly paved the way for his departure from the party, stressing that he cannot attribute his defection to any internal party failing or external pressure.
“Everyone who has followed the developments leading to this defection will recall that the governor willingly travelled the path that brought him here,” the statement read.
The party noted that despite the political tension in Rivers State, Fubara received consistent support from the PDP, civil society organizations and Nigerians during the height of the crisis, support it says he should not now overlook.
The PDP also warned the governor against aligning with individuals it accused of steering him toward his current political direction, arguing that the episode reflects deeper vulnerabilities within Nigeria’s democratic institutions.
According to the PDP, the events in Rivers State illustrate the growing influence of political actors who deploy federal might to suppress opponents, contributing to what the party described as a shrinking political space. It accused the APC of attempting to entrench a one-party system in the country.
The opposition party called on citizens, democratic institutions and the international community to remain alert as Nigeria faces what it described as a pivotal moment for the future of its democracy.
Rivers State Governor, Sir Siminalayi Fubara, had officially resigned from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and defected to the All Progressives Congress (APC), leading a mass movement of his supporters into the ruling party.
Fubara announced the decision on Tuesday, December 9, 2025, during a stakeholders’ meeting at Government House, Port Harcourt.
The governor disclosed that he met with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu at the Presidential Villa on Monday to brief him on the political situation in Rivers State. He emphasized that the consultation was motivated solely by his commitment to the stability and progress of the state.
According to Fubara, President Tinubu’s timely interventions during the height of the political crisis were the reason he remained in office. He said aligning with the APC was his way of showing appreciation and loyalty to the President.
“We have the full support and the positive nod to leave where we are, because we didn’t get any protection. The reason we are still standing is because of that place,” Fubara said.
He added that the most sincere way to appreciate President Tinubu was to stand with him completely.
“So, we have taken that decision today. Everyone here who has followed and suffered with me — our decision is that we are all moving to the APC,” he declared.
The governor assured that he and his supporters would give the President unwavering support, expressing confidence that the people of Rivers State would stand with them.
“We are the ones that will give that support, and we will give it with a loud voice,” he stated.
