The Speaker of the Rivers State House of Assembly, Martin Amaewhule, has formally moved to the All Progressives Congress, marking a major shift in the state’s political landscape.
Amaewhule’s defection came on Friday during a plenary session, where he crossed over alongside 15 other lawmakers. Their departure from the Peoples Democratic Party was attributed to what they described as persistent internal crises within the party, a situation they claimed had become untenable.
During the session, the defecting lawmakers explained that the turmoil within the PDP pushed them to seek what they termed a more stable political platform. Those who left the PDP with Amaewhule included Deputy Speaker Dumle Maol of Gokana; Major Jack representing Akuku-Toru; Linda Stewart from Okrika; Franklin Nwabochi of Ogba/Egbema/Ndoni; Azeru Opara from Port Harcourt Constituency 3; Smart Adoki from Port Harcourt Constituency 2; Enemi George representing Asari-Toru Constituency 2; and Solomon Wami of Port Harcourt Constituency 1. Others were Igwe Aforji of Eleme; Tekena Wellington of Asari-Toru Constituency 1; Looloo Opuende from Akuku-Toru Constituency 2; Peter Abbey of Degema; Arnold Dennis representing Ogu/Bolo; Chimezie Nwankwo of Etche; and Ofiks Kabang from Andoni.
Their mass defection comes at a time of significant political tension in the state, with the Assembly playing a central role in ongoing power struggles. The session continued after the announcement, marking what could become one of the most consequential political developments in Rivers State in recent months.
What you should know
This development signals a deepening rift within the PDP in Rivers State, as the party continues to grapple with internal conflicts that have intensified in recent months.
Martin Amaewhule and the 15 lawmakers who joined the APC have significantly altered the balance of power within the state legislature, potentially influencing future decisions and legislative outcomes. The move also strengthens the APC’s presence in a state long regarded as a PDP stronghold.
Analysts suggest the defections may reshape political alliances ahead of upcoming elections, as the realignment reflects ongoing tensions between major political actors in the state.
