Image of the Speaker of Rivers State House of Assembly, Martin Amaewhule.

The Speaker of the Rivers State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Martin Amaewhule, has defended his decision to leave the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) for the All Progressives Congress (APC). Amaewhule, representing Obio-Akpor I constituency, cited internal divisions within the PDP as the main reason for his defection.

Speaking to fellow lawmakers on Friday, Amaewhule praised President Bola Tinubu’s administration for programmes benefiting Nigerians, particularly residents of Rivers State. He said joining the APC would allow him to collaborate directly with the President for the welfare of the state’s people.

“Distinguished colleagues, let me announce that I have formally decided to leave the PDP. APC is now my party. I am happy to join forces with President Tinubu to support his initiatives and ensure Rivers people are part of governance in this country,” he stated.

Amaewhule defected alongside 15 other lawmakers, including the Deputy Speaker, Dumle Maol (Gokana), and members representing constituencies such as Akuku-Toru, Okrika, Ogba/Egbema/Ndoni, Port Harcourt, and Andoni.

The PDP had long maintained a stronghold in Rivers State since the return to civilian rule in 1999, but internal crises within the party, including clashes with Governor Siminalayi Fubara, partially demolished the State Assembly complex and sparked impeachment attempts against the governor.

President Tinubu intervened in March by declaring a state of emergency, temporarily suspending the governor, his deputy, and the lawmakers. All parties were reinstated in September, after which Amaewhule and his colleagues formally joined the APC.

Amaewhule defected along with 15 other members of the House on Friday.

Others who dumped the PDP were the Deputy Speaker, Dumle Maol (Gokana), Major Jack (Akuku-Toru), Linda Stewart (Okrika), Franklin Nwabochi (Ogba/Egbema/Ndoni), Azeru Opara (Port Harcourt 3), Smart Adoki (Port Harcourt 2), Enemi George (Asari-Toru 2), and Solomon Wami (Port Harcourt 1).

Also included were Igwe Aforji (Eleme), Tekena Wellington (Asari-Toru 1), Looloo Opuende (Akuku-Toru 2), Peter Abbey (Degema), Arnold Dennis (Ogu/Bolo), Chimezie Nwankwo (Etche), and Ofiks Kabang (Andoni).