In a significant political development, Rivers State Governor Sir Sim Fubara is reportedly on the brink of leaving the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) to join the Action People’s Party (APP). Sources suggest that the Governor, who has been at odds with his predecessor, Chief Barr. Nyesom Wike, following their fallout in October last year, has finalized plans to switch parties.

The APP’s state party secretariat in Port Harcourt has undergone substantial upgrades in recent months, signaling the party’s preparation for the upcoming October 5, 2024, local government elections. The APP aims to secure all 23 local government chairmanships in Rivers State, bolstered by this anticipated political realignment.

Governor Fubara, who no longer commands control over the PDP structure in Rivers State, is seeking a new political base for himself and his supporters to continue their political pursuits. An earlier consideration to move to the Labour Party was shelved after the party’s 2023 gubernatorial candidate, Beatrice Itubo, visited FCT Minister and former Rivers State Governor, Nyesom Wike, at his Abuja residence.

Beatrice Itubo visits Wike Abuja Residence

This visit sparked mixed reactions and social media backlash against Itubo, raising questions about her integrity, especially after previously declaring support for Fubara in Port Harcourt.

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Fubara’s media team and supporters have been actively promoting the activities of the APP, including the ongoing renovations at the party’s secretariat in Port Harcourt. On July 8th, 2024, the APP extended an olive branch to Fubara’s followers, offering them opportunities to run in the local government elections under the party’s platform. The party even announced free nomination forms for women and youth intending to contest in the upcoming elections.

Ongoing Renovation of APP Secretariat in Rivers State

It is alleged that the Rivers State Government is behind the massive renovation of APP state Secretariat in Port Harcourt.
Governor Fubara is expected to formally announce his defection to the APP by the end of August or early September, ahead of the local government elections, marking a major shift in the political landscape of Rivers State.

One of the Supporters of Governor Fubara tweeted