Defections Hit Fubara’s Camp as Loyalists Join ADC in Rivers State

Suspended Rivers State Governor Siminalayi Fubara has reportedly lost a number of his loyalists to the African Democratic Congress (ADC), which has recently been endorsed by several opposition leaders ahead of the 2027 general elections.

Sources told Nigeria News 247 that many of Fubara’s supporters have now aligned themselves with former Rivers State Governor Rotimi Amaechi, who is reportedly eyeing the ADC’s presidential ticket. The party was formally launched in Rivers State on July 23, with Amaechi and other key opposition figures in attendance at the event in Port Harcourt.

“There was a massive defection from the governor’s camp, especially from PDP to ADC,” the source claimed. “From what I’ve gathered, Fubara himself may also leave the PDP upon his return, though it’s unclear if he will join the opposition coalition or the ruling party.”

In response, Sydney Gbara, Publicity Secretary of the Fubara-led PDP faction in Rivers, stated that they remain loyal to the PDP unless directed otherwise by the governor.

“As of now, the governor hasn’t informed us of any decision to leave the PDP or join another party,” Gbara said. “But if he decides to move to the coalition or APC, I’ll follow him.”

Regarding the defections, Gbara maintained that political alignment is a personal decision: “Politics is a matter of choice. People are free to support whoever they wish. But many of us remain with the governor and will stand by whatever decision he takes.”

Governor Fubara was suspended on March 18, 2025, alongside his deputy and state lawmakers following a protracted political crisis. He is expected to return to office in September.