Why APC has not officially welcomed Fubara — Chairman
The Rivers State chapter of the All Progressives Congress (APC) has explained why it has not officially welcomed Governor Siminalayi Fubara into the party, amid widespread speculation about his political future and alleged moves toward aligning with the ruling party at the federal level.
Speaking on the matter, the APC state chairman said the party is exercising caution and due process, insisting that no formal steps have been taken by Governor Fubara to join the APC, contrary to rumours circulating in political circles.
Clarifying the Speculation
In recent weeks, political observers in Rivers State have speculated that Governor Fubara, who was elected on the platform of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), may be considering a switch to the APC. These rumours were fueled by his strained relationship with his predecessor, Nyesom Wike, and his perceived closeness to the Bola Ahmed Tinubu-led Federal Government.
However, the APC chairman dismissed claims that the party has deliberately delayed welcoming the governor, stating clearly that there is no official defection to acknowledge.
“You cannot welcome someone who has not formally applied to join your party,” the chairman said. “As a serious political organisation, APC follows laid-down procedures. Until those procedures are followed, there is nothing to announce.”
Party Rules and Due Process
According to the chairman, the APC operates a structured membership system that requires any intending member, regardless of status, to formally register at their ward level before being recognised by the party.
He stressed that high-profile political figures are not exempt from this process.
“Our constitution is very clear,” he said. “Whether you are a governor, senator, or councillor, you must start from the ward. There are no shortcuts.”
The chairman explained that until Governor Fubara formally defects from the PDP and completes the APC membership process, any claim of his entry into the party remains speculative.
Internal Party Sensitivities
Beyond procedure, the APC chairman also hinted at internal party sensitivities as a factor requiring careful handling. Rivers APC has endured years of internal crises, factional disputes, and legal battles, and party leaders are keen to avoid actions that could reignite divisions.
“There is a need for caution,” the chairman noted. “We must ensure that whatever decision is taken strengthens the party, not weakens it.”
Some APC stakeholders in Rivers State have reportedly expressed concern that welcoming Fubara prematurely could alienate long-standing party loyalists who have remained in opposition for years.
Relationship With Wike and Political Implications
Governor Fubara’s political rift with former governor and current Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, has been central to the defection rumours. Wike, a former PDP powerhouse in Rivers State, has maintained a strategic alliance with President Tinubu despite remaining officially in the PDP.
Analysts believe that Fubara’s attempt to assert political independence has placed him at odds with Wike’s political structure, raising questions about his long-term survival within the PDP.
However, the APC chairman was careful not to frame the issue as a conflict-driven opportunity.
“This is not about exploiting anyone’s political challenges,” he said. “APC is open to all Nigerians, but entry must be based on clear intention and proper process.”
PDP Still Fubara’s Official Platform
Despite the ongoing tensions, Governor Fubara remains officially a member of the PDP, and there has been no public declaration or resignation from the party.
Political analysts argue that any premature welcome by the APC could complicate legal and political realities, particularly if Fubara ultimately chooses to reconcile with PDP stakeholders or pursue an alternative strategy.
The APC chairman emphasized that the party would not engage in political assumptions.
“We deal with facts, not rumours,” he said. “Until Governor Fubara makes his position clear, APC will not speculate.”
What APC Is Waiting For
According to the chairman, the APC is waiting for three clear steps before any official welcome can occur:
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A public resignation by Governor Fubara from the PDP
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Formal registration as an APC member at ward level
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Notification and ratification by party structures
Without these, the party says it will maintain silence on the issue.
“If and when those steps are taken, the party will respond appropriately,” the chairman said.
Reactions From Political Observers
Political commentators say the APC’s cautious stance reflects a broader strategy to avoid political embarrassment and internal backlash.
Some observers believe the party is also waiting to assess the broader political implications of absorbing a sitting governor whose mandate was secured on a rival platform.
“This is politics at a high level,” one analyst said. “Everyone is calculating risks.”
Conclusion
The explanation from the APC chairman underscores that the party’s failure to officially welcome Governor Siminalayi Fubara is not rooted in rejection or indecision, but in procedure, caution, and political strategy.
Until Governor Fubara formally declares his intentions and follows the required steps, the APC insists it has nothing to formalise. For now, the political suspense in Rivers State continues, with all eyes on the governor’s next move and its potential impact on the state’s already complex political landscape.