December 12, (THEWILL) — Rivers State Governor, Siminalayi Fubara, on Friday, formally completed his defection to the All Progressives Congress (APC) after receiving his party membership card at a brief ceremony held at the Government House, Port Harcourt.
The APC confirmed the development in a statement accompanied by a photograph released by Tony Okocha, media aide to the state party chairman, showing the governor thumb-printing the APC membership register.
Fubara’s official registration comes days after he publicly announced his defection from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), describing his move to the APC as one taken in the collective interest of Rivers people and in appreciation of President Bola Tinubu’s support during the state’s recent political crisis.
Speaking after receiving his membership card labelled “001”—presented on behalf of APC National Chairman, Professor Nentawe Yilwatda, by Rivers State APC Chairman, Chief Tony Okocha, the governor declared himself the leader of the party in the state.
“Thank you, my chairman, for taking up this very task. Like he said, it’s a spiritual assignment. I’m not just a member of the APC; I’m the No. 1 in Rivers State. I’ve collected my registration card, and it reads 001”, Fubara said.
The governor reiterated that his decision to join the ruling party was motivated by a commitment to the safety, protection, progress and development of Rivers State, noting that aligning with the federal government would help fast-track the state’s aspirations.
“We can’t be doing our own here and going on a different course with the federal government, the ruling party. There is every reason to support Mr President, if not for anything else, for the sacrifice he has made to ensure that we still stand as a government”, he said.
Fubara added that his support for President Tinubu would extend into the 2027 election cycle, stressing that political unity was necessary for continued stability in the state. He also promised to take full responsibility for strengthening the APC across Rivers State.
“Every need of the APC in Rivers State will be looked after under my leadership”, he assured, urging members to intensify mobilisation efforts and widely preach the party’s message.
In his remarks, Chief Okocha described the assignment as “holy” and praised the governor for taking what he called a courageous and strategic decision.
“On the day you announced your decision to join the APC, I watched you on TV and aligned with your reasons. As APC state chairman, I welcome you wholeheartedly. With due respect, I will be at your beck and call”, Okocha said, adding that the party’s secretary, Hon. Eric Nwibani, would complete the documentation process.
The registration ceremony was attended by senior party figures, including the Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo, SAN.
Friday’s registration formally seals Governor Fubara’s exit from the PDP and firmly positions him within the APC as political alignments gather momentum ahead of 2027.
Felix Ifijeh is a journalist with years of professional reporting experience. Known for his keen news sense, compelling storytelling and commitment to accurate, impactful reporting, he has built a reputation for turning leads into clear, engaging, and well-structured reports that resonate with readers. His work reflects deep newsroom experience and a commitment to accurate, impactful journalism.
