The Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Rivers State, Tony Okocha, has issued a stern warning to suspended Governor Sim Fubara regarding any potential plans to defect to the ruling party, emphasizing that proper procedures must be followed.
Speaking in Port Harcourt on Friday, Okocha made it clear that while Fubara has the constitutional right to join any political party, he cannot circumvent established protocols if he intends to join the APC.
"Just like every other Nigerian, he is at liberty to join any political party. That is the law. But, I say anybody, not restricted to the governor, the suspended governor anyway, anybody who wants to join the APC should enter the party through the door, not through the window," Okocha stated.
The APC chairman further explained the proper channel for membership: "You have to go to your ward to enroll because your name as a member of the party cannot be found at the national secretariat except it comes from your ward. That is the proper door, that is the proper process."
Background of the Rivers Political Crisis
Governor Fubara is currently serving a six-month suspension following President Bola Tinubu's declaration of a state of emergency in Rivers State in March. The presidential action included the suspension of Fubara, his deputy, and all members of the State House of Assembly, with a Sole Administrator appointed to govern during this period.
The political turmoil in Rivers State erupted shortly after Fubara assumed office, stemming from a power struggle with the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, over control of political resources in the state. The situation escalated dramatically with the bombing of the State House of Assembly and the emergence of factions within the legislative arm.
Despite President Tinubu's initial peace interventions, the crisis persisted, ultimately leading to the governor's suspension to prevent potential security breakdown in the state.
Since his suspension, Fubara has engaged in meetings with both President Tinubu and Minister Wike in apparent efforts to reconcile with key stakeholders in the state.
The APC chairman's warning comes amid speculation about Fubara's political future and potential realignment as the crisis continues to reshape Rivers State's political landscape.
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