The Speaker of the Rivers State House of Assembly, Martin Amaewhule, has formally defected from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) to the All Progressives Congress (APC). He made the move alongside 16 other lawmakers during Friday’s plenary session.
The defectors cited deepening internal crises within the PDP as their primary reason for leaving the party.
Those who joined the APC include Deputy Speaker Dumle Maol (Gokana), Major Jack (Akuku-Toru), Linda Stewart (Okrika), Franklin Nwabochi (Ogba/Egbema/Ndoni), Azeru Opara (Port Harcourt 3), Smart Adoki (Port Harcourt 2), Enemi George (Asari-Toru 2), and Solomon Wami (Port Harcourt 1).
Others are Igwe Aforji (Eleme), Tekena Wellington (Asari-Toru 1), Looloo Opuende (Akuku-Toru 2), Peter Abbey (Degema), Arnold Dennis (Ogu/Bolo), Chimezie Nwankwo (Etche), Gerald Oforji (Oyigbo), and Ofiks Kabang (Andoni).
Their defection brings the number of APC lawmakers in the House to 17.
Meanwhile, the remaining 10 PDP lawmakers named Sylvanus Nwankwo, representing Omuma, as the new Minority Leader.
‘APC Is My New Party’ — Amaewhule
Amaewhule, who represents Obio-Akpor I constituency, said his decision was driven by what he described as divisions within the PDP.
“Distinguished colleagues, let me happily announce that I have informed my ward chairman, Mr. Osondo Orlu, of my decision to leave the PDP,” he declared.
“APC is my new party. I am committed to completing all processes needed to obtain my APC membership card. I am delighted to join the APC so we can support Mr. President. He is doing so much for this country.”
The Speaker praised President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for his efforts on security and for what he described as the President’s support for Rivers State.
“President Tinubu means well for Nigeria. He has shown love to Rivers State by ensuring we are part of national governance. I am happy to join the APC so we can support him from within the party,” he added.
During the session, House Leader Major Jack raised concerns over Governor Siminalayi Fubara’s alleged failure to fully constitute the state executive council and his delay in appointing an attorney general.
