Babatunji Wusu-
– Several Caretaker Committee Chairmen loyal to Governor Fubara have defected to the APP.
– Speculation grows about Fubara’s potential departure from the PDP amid tensions with Nyesom Wike.
– Most candidates for local government elections are now affiliated with the APP.
– Campaign activities are actively underway, with significant visibility of APP candidates and messaging.
– The APP plans to launch its senatorial campaigns, emphasizing a commitment to change governance in Rivers State.
In a notable political shift ahead of the October 5, 2024 local government elections in Rivers State, several Caretaker Committee Chairmen loyal to Governor Siminalayi Fubara have defected to the Action Peoples Party (APP). This development has intensified speculation regarding Fubara’s potential exit from the ruling Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), especially amid claims that the party’s structure is being dominated by his predecessor, Nyesom Wike, the current Minister of the Federal Capital Territory.
The ongoing tensions between Fubara and Wike have created a political crisis within the state. Despite this discord, Governor Fubara recently hosted the PDP’s Board of Trustees, led by Senator Adolphus Wabara, where he publicly denied any intentions to leave the party and reaffirmed his commitment to the PDP. However, the defections among council chairmen and their supporters reflect a widening rift.
Most candidates for chairmanship and councillor positions in the upcoming local government elections are now campaigning under the APP banner, with campaign activities already in full swing. A prominent billboard featuring Ezebunwo Ichemati, the current CTC Chairman of Port Harcourt City Council, displaying the APP logo, has been spotted throughout the city. Ichemati vowed to provide credible leadership if elected, stating, “We will defend the interests of the party (APP) and the state if elected into office.”
Similarly, Marvin Yobana, CTC Chairman of Khana Local Government Area, announced his defection to the APP, introducing his successor, Mr. Martins Ibibo, during an event in Khana. Campaign posters for other APP candidates have begun to saturate various parts of the state, indicating a vigorous campaign effort.
In related news, Rivers APP Chairman Sunny Wokekoro announced the launch of the party’s senatorial campaigns, beginning Tuesday in the Rivers South-East Senatorial District in Bori, Khana LGA. Wokekoro characterized the APP as a transformative force in the state, inviting the community to partner in changing the current governance narrative. He stated, “The Action Peoples Party, Rivers State branch invites you today as partners in progress in changing the ugly narrative of governance in our state.”
