The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, on Friday said the members of the Rivers State House of Assembly who shifted from the Peoples Democratic Party to the All Progressives Congress were entitled to make such a move.
He made the remark while speaking with journalists after touring the ongoing construction of an interchange bridge linking Maitama, Gishiri, Jahi, and Gwarimpa in Abuja.
Wike explained that his political camp would continue to collaborate with the lawmakers who still remain in the PDP. He described the departure of the defectors as “unfortunate,” noting that the internal troubles within the party played a major role in their decision to leave. He insisted that the constitution makes provisions for lawmakers to exit once a party is genuinely divided.
He noted that not all members dumped the party, stressing that around 16 or 17 out of 27 left, while about 10 stayed behind. According to a statement issued by his media aide, Lere Olayinka, Wike said his group would remain focused on working with the lawmakers who chose to stay.
Speaking further, Wike said the defectors “never told me” about their decision, though he maintained that they had the freedom to act as they chose. The former governor of Rivers State reaffirmed his commitment to the PDP and urged the party leadership to resolve its internal conflicts in order to remain politically relevant. He restated that the PDP must reorganise itself or risk further losses, adding that he and the remaining members would continue to play their part.
During Friday’s plenary session, seventeen lawmakers, among them the Speaker, Martins Amaewhule, announced their move from the PDP to the APC. Amaewhule said there were deep cracks within the PDP, and he expressed support for President Bola Tinubu, saying the President “means well for the country”.
What You Should Know
Nyesom Wike addressed the departure of 17 Rivers lawmakers who left the PDP for the APC, saying they acted within their rights because the party is divided.
He maintained that some members still remain in the PDP, and he will continue to work with them. Wike denied prior knowledge of the lawmakers’ plans but stressed that he remains in the party and wants its leaders to fix internal issues.
The defections were led by Speaker Martins Amaewhule, who cited divisions in the PDP and expressed support for President Bola Tinubu. The situation deepens the leadership crisis in Rivers politics.
