The All Progressives Congress (APC) has explained why Rivers State Governor Siminalayi Fubara has not yet received a formal public reception following his defection to the ruling party, describing the delay as a deliberate political decision influenced by regional and religious considerations.
APC National Chairman Nentawe Yilwatda said the timing reflects internal scheduling priorities and sensitivity to community dynamics, stressing that it should not be interpreted as a reflection of Fubara’s standing within the party.
“We have Kano we’re preparing for. When you’re dealing in politics, we opted to clear the north first because Ramadan is coming and most of the people in the north are Muslims,” Yilwatda explained, noting that the sequence of receptions was structured around northern engagements ahead of the Ramadan period.
Speaking in an interview yesterday, he added that the approach acknowledged cultural sensitivities in several northern communities, rejecting suggestions that the postponement questioned Fubara’s influence.
“These are strategic decisions that take into account the sensitivity of each community. It has nothing to do with Siminalayi Fubara not having authority,” he said.
Addressing speculation about internal dissatisfaction with Fubara’s position in Rivers politics, Yilwatda dismissed reports of discontent and criticised what he described as unsubstantiated narratives.
He also clarified the party’s formal structure is separate from independent political alliances, stating, “Support groups are separate from party activities. Is it under the office of the chairman of the party?”
The controversy over Fubara’s reception comes amid a prolonged political rift in Rivers State, following his fallout with former governor and FCT Minister Nyesom Wike after their 2023 dispute over control of the state’s political machinery.
Fubara left the Peoples Democratic Party for the APC on December 9, 2025, a move widely seen as an effort to strengthen his prospects ahead of the 2027 elections, while ongoing rivalry between competing factions continues to shape the state’s tense political landscape.
