TDNigeria’s political landscape is bracing for turbulence as reports intensify that Rivers State Governor Siminalayi Fubara may defect to the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC) following his exclusion from the All Progressives Congress (APC) screening process.
The development has sent ripples across political circles, igniting fierce debates on social media and within party structures.
Many observers are already describing the move as a potential political earthquake that could alter the balance of power in Rivers State and beyond.
The Defection Rumors Gain Traction
Governor Fubara himself has yet to issue an official statement.
However, speculation has intensified after his relative and political ally, Blessing Fubara Snr., formally defected from APC to NDC.
Blessing Fubara was received in Abuja by former Bayelsa Governor Seriake Dickson and other NDC stakeholders.
In his remarks, he declared that the decision was driven by the need to “protect the soul of Rivers State” amid growing political tension.
His defection is widely seen as a precursor to Governor Fubara’s own possible move.
It signaled a strategic shift in Rivers’ politics ahead of the 2027 general elections.
APC Screening Fallout
The controversy stems from the APC’s recent screening exercise for Rivers State House of Assembly aspirants:
The Screening Committee, chaired by Hon. Muraina Ajibola, disqualified 65 aspirants loyal to Governor Fubara and Tonye Cole.
In contrast, 33 aspirants loyal to FCT Minister Nyesom Wike were cleared to participate in the primaries.
The Appeal Committee, led by Abdul Mahmud, confirmed that 19 appeals have already been filed.
He indicated that the process is set to close tomorrow before the final list of cleared aspirants is released.
This sharp division has deepened existing cracks within the APC.
It fueled speculation that Fubara may seek refuge in the NDC to consolidate his political base.
Wider Political Implications
Analysts warn that if Governor Fubara’s defection is confirmed, the consequences could be far-reaching:
- Reshaping Alliances: Rivers State, a strategic oil-rich region, could witness a major realignment of political loyalties.
- APC Internal Struggles: The exclusion of Fubara’s loyalists highlights the growing dominance of Wike’s faction, potentially alienating other blocs.
- National Impact: A Fubara defection could embolden opposition parties and force APC to rethink its strategy ahead of the 2027 elections.
- Grassroots Mobilization: With Blessing Fubara already in NDC, grassroots supporters may begin shifting allegiance, creating momentum for a broader exodus.
Voices From the Ground
Political stakeholders in Rivers State have expressed mixed reactions.
Supporters of Fubara argue that the APC’s screening snub was a deliberate attempt to weaken his influence.
Critics, however, claim that his rumored defection reflects opportunism and could destabilize the fragile political balance in the state.
Meanwhile, social media platforms are buzzing with hashtags and heated debates, underscoring the high stakes of this unfolding drama.
Neither Governor Fubara nor APC leadership has issued an official confirmation.
