By Sola Ojewusi
Rivers State Governor, Siminalayi Fubara, on Tuesday, welcomed a high-powered delegation from the Board of Trustees (BoT) of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) at the Government House in Port Harcourt. The visit comes amidst persistent speculation that Governor Fubara was considering leaving the PDP, with rumors suggesting a potential defection to the All Progressives Congress (APC).
The PDP delegation, led by BoT Chairman Senator Adolphus Wabara, included prominent party figures such as former National Chairman Ahmed Makarfi, elder statesman Olabode George, and Senator Abdul Ningi. Their visit aimed to strengthen ties and resolve the ongoing crisis within the party.
Despite pressure from various quarters urging Governor Fubara to leave the PDP, he has remained silent on his future political plans. However, the governor’s recent reception of the PDP BoT delegation appears to indicate his continued association with the party.
In his remarks, Governor Fubara expressed doubts about his standing within the PDP but acknowledged that the BoT’s visit provided reassurance of his membership. “So far, what is important this afternoon is that we are still members of the party, and the owners of the party have visited us,” Fubara said. “For those outside spreading rumors and propaganda, this visit will put those to rest and show the world that we remain members of the Peoples Democratic Party.”
BoT Chairman Senator Wabara, speaking on behalf of the delegation, expressed concerns about the possibility of the PDP losing its stronghold in Rivers State, which he described as critical to the future of Nigeria. “We were scared, Sir, when we heard or read speculations that the party might lose Rivers State. If we lose Rivers State, Nigeria has lost its future,” Wabara warned.
Wabara praised Governor Fubara for his patience and resilience in the face of the party’s internal challenges, assuring him that the BoT would address the issues within the framework of the party’s constitution. “On behalf of the party, I thank you for your resilience, your wisdom, and for staying with us. The BoT, under my leadership, will address the matter as constitutionally allowed,” Wabara assured.
The visit marks a significant step towards mending rifts within the PDP in Rivers State and reaffirming the governor’s commitment to the party amidst ongoing political uncertainties.
