In a significant development aimed at quelling months of speculation, Rivers State Governor, Siminalayi Fubara, on Tuesday welcomed members of the Board of Trustees (BoT) of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) to the Government House in Port Harcourt. The visit, seen as a strategic move to reaffirm Governor Fubara’s allegiance to the party, comes amid widespread rumors suggesting that the governor might be contemplating a defection to the All Progressives Congress (APC).
The high-profile delegation from the PDP included the BoT Chairman, Senator Adolphus Wabara, former National Chairman of the party, Senator Ahmed Makarfi, veteran statesman Olabode George, and Senator Abdul Ningi. Their arrival in Rivers State marks a crucial intervention, especially as calls for Governor Fubara to abandon the PDP have intensified in recent months. Political observers have noted that the governor’s silence on these speculations has only fueled further uncertainty regarding his political future.
During the visit, the BoT members emphasized that their mission was primarily focused on fostering peace within the party and strengthening long-standing alliances that have been the bedrock of the PDP’s success in Rivers State. Addressing the party leadership, Governor Fubara acknowledged the prevailing doubts about his membership in the PDP but indicated that the BoT’s visit had somewhat reassured him of his standing within the party.
In his remarks, Governor Fubara stated, “But, so far, what is important this afternoon is that we are still members of the party, and the owners of the party have visited us. So, for those people outside who are carrying all sorts of rumors and propaganda, at least, this visit will put that propaganda to rest, and to tell the world that we are and we still remain members of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP).”
The governor’s words appeared aimed at quelling the swirling rumors and reaffirming his commitment to the PDP, despite the pressure from various quarters. However, political analysts suggest that the governor’s reluctance to make a definitive statement about his future with the party leaves room for further speculation.
The BoT Chairman, Senator Adolphus Wabara, during his address, underscored the gravity of the situation, expressing deep concerns about the possibility of the PDP losing control of Rivers State. Wabara’s remarks reflected the high stakes involved, as he noted that the loss of Rivers State to the opposition could have dire consequences for the future of the PDP and, by extension, the country.
“We were scared, Sir, when we heard or read speculations, perceptions, or what have you, that the party, if we are not careful, might lose Rivers State. Of course, if we lose Rivers State, Nigeria has lost its future,” Wabara stated emphatically.
He drew parallels to the party’s past losses in 2015 and 2023, warning that a similar outcome in Rivers State could have far-reaching implications. Wabara also praised Governor Fubara for his patience and resilience in the face of the ongoing crisis within the PDP. He acknowledged that the governor had shown considerable restraint, especially given the inactivity of the party’s leadership in addressing the pressing issues at hand.
“I don’t want to describe it. Otherwise, as a Governor, we have former Governors here, I doubt if they would have taken as much as you have. So, on behalf of this party, once again, let me thank you for your resilience, your wisdom, and for the fact that you are still in this party,” Wabara added, highlighting the governor’s steadfastness despite the challenges.
Wabara assured Governor Fubara that the BoT, under his leadership, is committed to addressing the issues constitutionally and restoring the party’s stability in Rivers State. He emphasized that the BoT members, who are regarded as the conscience of the party, are determined to uphold the rule of law in resolving the crisis.
The visit by the PDP BoT members to Rivers State has been widely interpreted as a critical effort to mend fences and solidify the party’s position ahead of future elections. As the political landscape in Rivers State continues to evolve, Governor Fubara’s next moves will be closely watched by both supporters and opponents, with the future of the PDP in the state hanging in the balance. The outcome of these engagements could have significant implications not only for Rivers State but also for the national political scene as the PDP strives to maintain its influence and relevance in the face of growing challenges.
