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Wike Speaks on Defection of 17 Rivers Lawmakers, Calls Move “Unfortunate but Constitutional”
FCT Minister Reacts to Mass Defection in Rivers Assembly
Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, has spoken publicly about the defection of 17 Rivers State House of Assembly members from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) to the All Progressives Congress (APC).
“The Constitution Allows It,” Wike Says
Internal Party Division Provides Legal Grounds
Speaking to journalists in Abuja on Friday, Wike explained that the lawmakers’ exit was enabled by the deep internal divisions within the PDP.
According to him, once a political party becomes factionalized, the Nigerian Constitution grants members the right to defect.
Wike’s Statement
“Everyone is entitled to their choice,” Wike said.
“The party is clearly divided, and once a party is in that state, the Constitution allows members to move.”
Wike Denies Influencing the Defections
Says Lawmakers Did Not Inform Him
Wike dismissed speculation that he engineered or encouraged the mass defection.
He stated that the lawmakers did not consult or notify him before leaving the party.
Reaffirms Loyalty to PDP
He also insisted that he remains committed to the PDP and urged the party’s national leadership to resolve ongoing disputes to avoid further damage.
The Defectors and Their Reasons
Led by Speaker Martin Amaewhule
The defecting lawmakers — led by Speaker Martin Amaewhule — cited long-standing disagreements within the PDP as their reason for leaving.
Alignment With President Tinubu
They further pledged their support for President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, stating that the APC offers a more stable political platform.
A Critical Moment for the PDP
Wike emphasized the need for urgent reconciliation within the PDP to prevent additional defections.
As internal tensions continue, political observers are watching closely to see how the crisis unfolds in Rivers State.
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