The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, has expressed that he was personally affected by the defection of 17 members of the Rivers State House of Assembly from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) to the All Progressives Congress (APC).
On December 5, 2025, these 17 lawmakers, including Speaker Martins Amaewhule, switched allegiance to the APC, escalating political tensions in Rivers State, which was recently emerging from a six-month state of emergency. Shortly after, Governor Sim Fubara also left the PDP for the APC amid ongoing leadership disputes with Wike.
Speaking at the Assembly Quarters on Saturday, Wike revealed that the defecting lawmakers did so without consulting him. He thanked the Speaker but acknowledged the impact of their departure.
Wike said, “Let me thank you Mr Speaker even though it affected me with 17 of you moving out to join APC without consulting me and leaving 10 other members here. This is what I have been advising my National Chairman, keep your house in order so that the enemies will not come and take our people.”
He warned about political opponents taking advantage of disunity, stating, “The enemies are hovering around and when you are not vigilant they take your people, that is why you must be at alert to make sure that enemies don’t take your people.”
Wike assured those who remain loyal that he would support them, saying, “Those of you still remaining, whenever you choose, I’m here, but what I will not do is to let you suffer in your life.”
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