The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has cautioned the Governor of Rivers State, Siminalayi Fubara, against defecting to the All Progressives Congress (APC) as he prepares to return to office.
The party also urged him to reject attempts by the APC to woo him.
The PDP further called for a thorough probe into how Rivers State was managed during during his six-month suspension
In an interview with Vanguard, PDP Deputy National Legal Adviser Barr. Okechukwu Osuoha and Deputy National Youth Leader Timothy Osadolor stressed that Fubara’s return must bring accountability, loyalty to the PDP, and peace to the state.
Osuoha explained that Fubara’s suspension was tied to the declaration of a state of emergency by the president to prevent a total breakdown of order in the state.
“The suspension was only for six months. Since there has been no extension, the governor must return and take up his role without delay,” he said.
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He noted that although there had been debates on the legality of suspending an elected governor, Fubara’s return should focus on reconciliation and development.
“Rivers needs unity for progress. The governor must build cordial relations with the House of Assembly, party leaders, and stakeholders to move the state forward,” Osuoha added.
He urged Fubara to fully participate in PDP activities, reminding him that no politician operates outside their party.
“He is still a PDP member. Party is supreme. By standing firm in the PDP, he will show Nigerians where he belongs,” Osuoha said.
On his part, Osadolor warned Fubara not to succumb to pressure to join the APC. He urged the governor to investigate the management of the state under the interim administrator, Admiral Ibok-Ete Ibas.
“There can be no peace without justice. The governor must interrogate the six months Admiral Ibas spent in office. If wrongdoing is uncovered, he should face the law. He was not elected by the people and enjoyed no constitutional immunity,” Osadolor stated.
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He further cautioned Fubara against accepting political offers from the APC that could undermine his career.
“Any attempt to defect will legitimise the illegal suspension and destroy his political future. These promises are traps meant to bury him politically,” he warned.
Osadolor urged Fubara to reaffirm his mandate and stay committed to the people of Rivers.
“He must declare publicly that he will not defect. His focus should be on good governance and keeping faith with the people who elected him,” he said.
Rafiyat Sadiq is a political, justice, and human rights reporter with Pinnacle Daily, known for fearless reporting and impactful storytelling. At Pinnacle Daily, she brings clarity and depth to issues shaping governance, democracy, and the protection of citizens’ rights.
