PDP Initiates Action to Replace 27 Pro-Wike Assembly Defectors**

By  Milcah   Tanimu

The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has announced its intention to write the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to demand fresh elections to replace its 27 members in the Rivers State House of Assembly who recently defected to the All Progressives Congress (APC). The defectors, who were elected on the PDP platform, cited divisions within the party as the reason for their move. The PDP, describing itself as a law-abiding party, stated that it would explore all options to reclaim the seats, including seeking redress from INEC.

1. **Background of Defection:** The 27 members of the Rivers State House of Assembly, who were elected on the PDP platform, defected to the APC. They cited party divisions, specifically related to the tussle for the position of the National Secretary of the PDP, as the primary reason for their defection.

2. **Governorship Aspirant Tensions:** Tensions reportedly escalated within the PDP before the 2023 governorship election in Rivers State, with Governor Nyesom Wike allegedly endorsing Siminalayi Fubara, who was the Accountant General of the state, as a gubernatorial aspirant. This move created internal strife within the party.

3. **Immediate Response by PDP:** The PDP National Publicity Secretary, Debo Ologunagba, stated that the party would write to INEC, seeking fresh elections to replace the defected members. He cited Section 109 (1) (g) of the 1999 Constitution, which provides for the vacation of a seat if a member defects to another political party.

4. **INEC and Legal Actions:** Ologunagba did not disclose the specific actions the party would take if INEC did not grant its request. However, he emphasized that the PDP would explore all options and adhere to the law.

5. **Government’s Reaction:** The governor of Rivers State, Siminalayi Fubara, did not publicly address the defection of the lawmakers during a state executive council meeting. The PDP, however, condemned the defection and called for prompt action.

6. **Civil Society Warning:** A coalition of Rivers Civil Society Groups warned the Commissioner of Police in the state to remain neutral and not take sides in the political crisis. The group urged peaceful resolution and cautioned against actions that could

escalate tensions.

The defection of 27 members from the PDP to the APC in the Rivers State House of Assembly has led to political tensions. The PDP’s decision to seek fresh elections through INEC indicates a commitment to upholding legal processes in addressing the defection. The situation reflects broader political dynamics and internal party struggles within Rivers State, with potential implications for the political landscape in the region. Ongoing developments, including any legal actions or responses from INEC, will shed more light on the resolution of this political crisis.