The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, has opened up about the recent political shift in Rivers State, revealing that the defection of 17 members of the Rivers State House of Assembly from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) to the All Progressives Congress (APC) personally affected him.
The development, which occurred on December 5, 2025, saw Speaker Martins Amaewhule and 16 other lawmakers dump the PDP for the APC — a move that reignited political tensions in the state, despite recently emerging from a six-month state of emergency. Shortly afterwards, Governor Sim Fubara also left the PDP for the APC, following an ongoing leadership dispute between himself and Wike.
Speaking on Saturday at the Assembly Quarters, Wike expressed displeasure over the lawmakers’ decision, stating that they made the move without consulting him. He, however, assured the remaining lawmakers of his continued support.
“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,” Wike said.
He emphasized the need for internal unity within political parties, warning that disunity opens the door for “enemies” to take advantage.
“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. The enemies are hovering around and if you’re not vigilant, they will take your people,” he added.
Wike concluded by pledging support to those who remained in the PDP.
“Those of you still remaining, whenever you choose, I’m here. But what I will not do is let you suffer in your life.”