The All Progressives Congress has explained why Rivers State Governor, Siminalayi Fubara, has not yet been formally received into the party despite his defection.
The explanation was given by the APC National Chairman, Professor Nentawe Yilwatda, during an interview on TVC on Sunday. He said the delay was deliberate and based on political planning rather than any issue with Fubara’s position or authority within the party.
According to him, the party decided to first conclude planned activities in northern states before turning attention to the southern region. He said this decision was influenced by the approaching Ramadan period, which requires careful scheduling in many northern communities where religious observances are taken seriously.
Yilwatda explained that the APC preferred to complete engagements involving northern governors ahead of Ramadan, noting that such timing concerns do not apply in the southern part of the country. He added that the sequence was chosen to avoid tension and respect local sensitivities.
He also dismissed claims that the delay suggested Fubara lacked control or recognition within the APC in Rivers State. The party chairman said there had been no complaints or petitions from any party member challenging Fubara’s role or authority since his defection.
Addressing reports that political support groups linked to former Rivers State governor and FCT Minister, Nyesom Wike, were taking prominence in the state, Yilwatda clarified that such groups were not part of the APC’s official structure and should not be confused with party leadership.
Fubara joined the APC on December 9, 2025, after leaving the Peoples Democratic Party. His move followed a prolonged political crisis in Rivers State, which stemmed from a breakdown in his relationship with Wike after the 2023 elections. The dispute later led to federal intervention and a temporary state of emergency in the state.
Since his defection, questions have continued to trail leadership control within the APC in Rivers, especially with Wike’s supporters still occupying key party positions. The situation has contributed to ongoing political tension, including threats of impeachment and negotiations among rival groups, as political actors position themselves ahead of the 2027 general elections.
The APC leadership, however, maintains that the delay in formally welcoming Fubara is purely strategic and that arrangements will be made at the appropriate time.