Rivers State residents have continued to react to Governor Siminalayi Fubara’s recent defection from the People’s Democratic Party(PDP), to the ruling All Progressives Congress(APC), with opinions sharply divided across communities and professional groups.
A cross section of citizens who spoke with Our Correspondent expressed a range of emotions, such as, shock, optimism, disappointment, and indifference, following the Governor’s decision, which according to them has altered the political landscape of the oil and gas- rich state.
One of them, a Medical Consultant in Rivers State, Dr Ngozi Boma Toby said the move was unexpected, but may be beneficial.
“If joining the All Progressives Congress(APC), will help him secure more federal support to the state, especially, in projects allocation, and other demanding democratic dividends, then, I don’t see no problem in his decision and action.
For, I solidly stand by his actions. What matters most is that salaries of Rivers workers, including, local government staff, as well as, the retirees pensions and gratuities on regular basis remain sacrosanct”,she said.
But for a political juggernaut and unionist, Hon. Fine face Akaya, the Governor’s defection represented a departure from the ideals many youths’ believed in. “I feel betrayed. I hope it is not a move that will set the state backward”, he said.
Another respondent, a clergyman Pastor Lucky Jite, described the Governor’s decision as strategic. Though, many people may view his actions as uncalled for, I will follow him and his team, anywhere he finds himself, as far as good things, and dividends of democracy will get to the people.
“Aligning with the ruling party could attract federal presence, especially, investment. Politics is strategic”, he noted.
A student unionist, Dr Bright Nelson, has this to say, “The Governor has every constitutional right to associate politically, but transparency and long-term good governance is non- negotiable.
“Rivers people deserve clarity on how his political decision affect governance, public expenditure, and institutional stability. For me, wherever the Governor pinch tent politically, we would definitely back him up”, he said.
At the Mile 1 Market, traders appeared more concerned with cost of living than political affiliations. “As long as food does not get more expensive, let him join whichever party he wants”, said a trader, Mrs Agatha Offor .
Also see: PDP NWC Constituted Caretaker Committees for Rivers State
Also speaking with our correspondent, a Traditional ruler, Chief Ibiba Long-John, said the move has reduced political tension and foster development.
“If joining the All Progressives Congress(APC) will bring lasting peaceful relationship and more development to riverine communities, we stand behind him.
Not left out in the discussion, a Human rights advocate, Senibo Rowland Michael Sam, disagreed with the move, warning that defection weakens Nigeria’s political stability.
“As much as politics and good governance is concerned, better development bridges should thrive with
Rivers people; hence, we will continue to give our unflinching loyalty and unalloyed support in the business of governance,” he affirmed.
“Governor Fubara to be precise, owes the people of Rivers State one hundred percent transparency and good governance. They deserved to know why he made this move,” he argued.
Meanwhile, political observers say the coming weeks will determine whether the defection stabilizes or further unsettles Rivers State’s political climate.
