‘Soul of Rivers at stake’: Fubara Leaves APC for NDC

By Ochiabuto Ambrose

Political realignments ahead of the 2027 general elections gathered momentum on Tuesday as a Rivers State political stakeholder, Blessing Fubara Snr., officially defected from the All Progressives Congress (APC) to the National Democratic Coalition (NDC).

Blessing Fubara, who is reported to be a relative of Rivers State Governor Siminalayi Fubara, was formally received in Abuja by former Bayelsa State Governor and leader of the  opposition party, Senator Seriake Dickson, alongside other leaders and stakeholders of the NDC.

The defection is expected to trigger fresh political conversations in Rivers State, where tensions have remained high following prolonged political disputes and shifting alliances involving key actors in the state’s power structure.

Speaking after joining the party, Blessing Fubara said his decision was motivated by what he described as the urgent need to safeguard the political future of Rivers State ahead of the next electoral cycle.

According to him, the state is at a critical crossroads and requires strategic political decisions capable of protecting its interests.

“The soul of Rivers State is at stake,” he declared, while explaining his reasons for leaving the APC.

Observers say the move may be an early indication of wider political recalculations ahead of 2027, as politicians across Rivers and the South-South region begin repositioning amid uncertainties surrounding party loyalties and future alliances.

The defection comes at a time when opposition parties are intensifying consultations and coalition talks aimed at strengthening their structures ahead of the presidential, governorship, and legislative contests.

Political analysts believe Rivers State will remain one of Nigeria’s most closely watched battlegrounds in 2027, given its strategic economic importance, voting strength, and history of high-stakes political contests.

Although neither the APC nor Rivers political leaders have officially reacted to the development, the latest defection is likely to fuel further speculation about emerging alignments and possible cracks within existing party structures in the state.