Rivers Assembly Speaker defects to APC with 16 lawmakers
The Speaker of the Rivers State House of Assembly and 16 other lawmakers have defected from the Peoples Democratic Party to the All Progressives Congress in a major political development that has reshaped the balance of power in the state legislature. The lawmakers formally announced their defection during a plenary session, citing unresolved internal crises within their former party as the main reason for their decision.
The Speaker, who led the defection, said the move was taken after wide consultations with political stakeholders and supporters across their constituencies. He explained that persistent divisions, leadership struggles, and uncertainty within the party made it difficult for lawmakers to effectively serve their constituents and contribute meaningfully to governance.
Following the announcement, the lawmakers were officially received by leaders of the APC in the state, who described the development as a major boost to the party’s strength in Rivers. Party officials said the defection would help deepen democratic engagement and promote better cooperation between the legislature and the ruling party at the national level.
The defections have triggered fresh political tension in Rivers State, with reactions pouring in from different quarters. While APC supporters celebrated the move as a victory, loyalists of the PDP described it as a setback that could weaken the opposition in the state assembly.
Political observers say the development is likely to have far-reaching implications for legislative activities, party dominance, and future elections in Rivers State. As the political landscape continues to shift, all eyes remain on how the new alignment will influence governance and stability in the state.
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