27 members of the Rivers State House of Assembly defected from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) to the All Progressives Congress (APC).

Their defection is a result of the power game between the Minister of Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike and incumbent Rivers State governor Simi Fubara.

All 27 defected PDP Rivers State House of Assembly members, waving APC flags

The crisis came into public light following the burning of the Rivers State Assembly Complex on 29th October, 2023, an incident was blamed on moves by the governor to prevent his impeachment.

It will be recalled that the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, had accused Governor Siminalayi Fubara, of orchestrating the burning of a section of the State House Assembly complex.

The rift among members of the State House of Assembly had led to some lawmakers commencing impeachment proceedings against Governor Fubara.

This move was, however, halted following the intervention of President Tinubu.

A member of the Assembly, Enemi George, who confirmed the development to Channels Television said the 27 lawmakers were under the leadership of Martin Amaewhule.

According to him, the decision to defect to APC was taken during their sitting on Monday.