The 27 members of the Rivers State House of Assembly said to be loyal to former governor and now Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, have dumped the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) for the All Progressives Congress (APC).
The development may not be unconnected with the festering political tension generated by the face-off between Wike and incumbent Governor Simi Fubara.
The crisis came into public light following the burning of a section of the Rivers State Assembly Complex on 29th October. In reaction, Wike accused Governor Fubara of orchestrating the burning of a section of the State House Assembly complex.
Wike also accused Governor Fubara of destroying the “political structure” that gave him victory under three months..
The rift resulted in members of the state assembly loyal to Wile moving to commence impeachment proceedings against Governor Fubara. This move was, however, halted following the intervention of President Bola Tinubu.
A member of the Assembly, Enemi George, who confirmed the defection of the lawmakers to to Channels Television, monitored by our Reporter, said the 27 lawmakers were under the leadership of Martin Amaewhule.
According to him, the decision to defect to APC was taken during their sitting on Monday.
More to follow…
