NEWS
Political Realignment Deepens in Rivers as Four Federal Lawmakers Dump PDP for APC Following Governor Fubara’s Defection
In a major political shake-up that continues to redefine the balance of power in Rivers State, four members of the House of Representatives have formally defected from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) to the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC).
The lawmakers’ defection comes barely one week after Rivers State Governor, Siminalayi Fubara, made a high-profile switch to the APC, a move that has triggered a wave of political recalibration across the state’s political structure.
Those who crossed party lines include Manuchim Umezuruike, who represents Port Harcourt I Federal Constituency; Boniface Emerengwa of Ikwerre/Emuoha Federal Constituency; Awake-Inombek Abiante, the lawmaker for Andoni/Opobo Federal Constituency; and Boma Goodhead, who represents Asari-Toru Federal Constituency.
The mass defection underscores a growing momentum toward the APC among key political figures in Rivers State, particularly at the federal legislative level. Observers note that the lawmakers’ decision reflects a strategic alignment with the emerging power configuration in the state following the governor’s defection.
Political analysts believe the latest development could significantly alter legislative influence, party strength, and future electoral calculations in Rivers State, as more politicians reassess their positions amid the shifting political tide.
With both executive and legislative actors now gravitating toward the APC, Rivers State appears to be entering a new phase of political reordering, one that may have far-reaching implications for governance and party dominance ahead of future elections.