Defection: Fubara faces fresh dilemma over plans to join APC

Following a recent reconciliation with the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Minister, the suspended governor of Rivers State, Siminalayi Fubara, finds himself at a crossroads as he contemplates a significant political decision.

He faces a challenging choice between aligning himself with the opposition People’s Democratic Party (PDP), which holds a strong grip in Rivers State, or embracing the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) in pursuit of his political ambitions.

In a show of solidarity, key stakeholders from the APC in the South-South region recently rallied behind President Bola Tinubu and three governors from the area for the upcoming 2027 elections.

They have extended an invitation to the two South-South governors who remain outside the APC—Siminalayi Fubara of Rivers and Douye Diri of Bayelsa—to consider joining the ruling party, highlighting the potential benefits and successes of alignment with the APC.

These stakeholders have praised President Tinubu for his commitment to the South-South region, noting the recent enactment of the South-South Development Commission Act and the ongoing infrastructural developments aimed at improving the area’s economy and living standards.

However, amidst this encouragement, insiders reveal that Fubara is treading cautiously. He is acutely aware of his political base in Rivers State, which has consistently leaned towards the PDP. The need to maintain his support among his constituents weighs heavily on his decision-making, as he fears a backlash that could jeopardize his political future.

As it stands, Fubara remains under suspension due to a turbulent political crisis in Rivers State that prompted President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to declare a state of emergency, suspending Fubara, his deputy, and the state assembly for six months.

Despite the challenges, Fubara has made strides in mending fences with his erstwhile political ally and current FCT minister, Nyesom Wike, thanks to President Tinubu’s conciliatory efforts.

With the political landscape shifting and crucial decisions on the horizon, Siminalayi Fubara’s next moves will undoubtedly have significant implications for his career and the political dynamics in Rivers State.

The source said: “Fubara is being calculative, it is not his wish to join APC, if he does that it may affect his ambition in the future because his return as governor of the state still under watch and it is not certain again if he will get second term. And don’t forget that Rivers State is PDP state except it will change if Wike defects.

The APC stakeholders meeting was attended by Senate President Godswill Akpabio, Adams Oshiomhole, Edo north senator; Festus Keyamo, minister of aviation; Ali Dalori, APC acting national chairman; Victor Giadom, APC national vice-chairman, and governors of the geopolitical zone.