Intrigues trail Amaechi’s ally rumoured defection to PDP

Okenyi Kenechi

As politicians strategize for 2023 and with governor Nyesom Wike hoping to build a stronger Peoples Democratic Party, PDP; one of Rotimi Chibuike Amaechi, the Minister of Transportation’ strongest ally, Chidi Lloyd is rumoured to have dumped the All Progressives Congress, APC, for the PDP.

Rumours of his defection follow a visit to his home by the leadership of the PDP in Emohua Local government area led by governor Wike’s ally, Sergeant Awuse.

Others who visited Mr Lloyd include the chairman of Emohua local government area, Tom Aliezi.

The news stirred emotions on social media on Friday.

No official statement has been issued on the rumoured defection just as Mr Lloyd refused to confirm the development as at press time except threatening to sue persons he accused of attributing false statements to him.

However, a source knowledgeable in the matter and who craved anonymity told theportcitynews.com that the two-term majority leader of the Rivers State House of Assembly has been in talks with the PDP for some time.

The source said that many of Amaechi’s lieutenant have been left out of the scheme owing to the protracted legal issues which have crippled the APC in the state.

The source said: “Some of the Amaechi’s boys feel left out and are anxious to return to power. Wike on the hand is taking advantage of the fractionalization of the APC to consolidate for 2023.

“Lloyd is respected in Emohua and he understands that politics is local and will bring his entire structure into the PDP”

Mr Lloyd, a lawyer, was the manager of Tonye Cole’s 2019 gubernatorial campaign.

The party, however, did not contest after being disqualified by the court.