The Speaker of the Rivers State House of Assembly, Rt Hon Martin Amaewhule, on Friday defended his decision to leave the Peoples Democratic Party for the All Progressives Congress, saying his move was driven by the deep division that has overtaken the PDP.
Amaewhule, who represents the Obio-Akpor I constituency, emphasised during plenary that the disagreements within the PDP had made continued membership untenable.
He expressed admiration for President Bola Tinubu, pointing to several government initiatives that he said have positively impacted Nigerians, including residents of Rivers State. Amaewhule explained that aligning with the APC would strengthen his ability to work closely with the President for the benefit of the people he represents.
Amaewhule told lawmakers that he had officially notified his Ward Chairman, Mr Osondo Orlu, about his decision to resign from the PDP. In his words, “APC is my new party. I will do all that is needed to be done towards ensuring that the party card of the All Progressives Congress is issued to me in no time. I am happy to be a member of the APC so that we can join forces with Mr President. He is doing so much for this country.” He added that “President Bola Ahmed Tinubu means well for Nigeria” and praised him for addressing security challenges and supporting Rivers State’s involvement in national governance.
Amaewhule’s defection came alongside 15 other lawmakers who also left the PDP on Friday. They include the Deputy Speaker, Dumle Maol of Gokana, as well as Major Jack from Akuku-Toru, Linda Stewart of Okrika, Franklin Nwabochi from Ogba/Egbema/Ndoni, Azeru Opara representing Port Harcourt 3, Smart Adoki of Port Harcourt 2, Enemi George from Asari-Toru 2 and Solomon Wami from Port Harcourt 1. Others who joined the move were Igwe Aforji of Eleme, Tekena Wellington from Asari-Toru 1, Looloo Opuende of Akuku-Toru 2, Peter Abbey from Degema, Arnold Dennis of Ogu/Bolo, Chimezie Nwankwo from Etche and Ofiks Kabang representing Andoni.
Rivers State has long been a stronghold of the PDP since Nigeria’s return to democracy in 1999, but recent political turmoil has deeply unsettled the party’s dominance.
The internal crisis that pitched lawmakers against Governor Siminalayi Fubara escalated into widespread tension, including the partial demolition of the State Assembly complex by individuals alleged to be loyal to the governor and attempts to impeach him by lawmakers aligned with the FCT Minister, Nyesom Wike.
These developments prompted President Tinubu to intervene, stepping in to ease the political standoff and declaring a state of emergency on March 18. The declaration resulted in the temporary suspension of Governor Fubara, his deputy Ngozi Odu, and the lawmakers involved. After the emergency period ended, President Tinubu reinstated the governor, his deputy, and the Assembly members on September 17.
What You Should Know
Martin Amaewhule’s defection to the APC reflects the deepening political fractures within the PDP in Rivers State, a region long dominated by the party.
His move, alongside 15 lawmakers, adds new weight to the ongoing power struggle involving Governor Siminalayi Fubara and FCT Minister Nyesom Wike. Amaewhule’s remarks signal a strategic realignment toward President Tinubu, whom he praised for his governance approach and contributions to Rivers politics.
The broader crisis, which saw the Assembly complex partially demolished and impeachment attempts unfold, forced presidential intervention and reshaped the state’s political landscape.
