“Fubara’s Sins Can’t Be Washed Away by Joining APC” — APC Chair

Abuja, Nigeria – The Rivers State Chapter of the All Progressives Congress (APC) has declared that suspended state governor Siminalayi Fubara would not find refuge in the party, even if he sought to defect.

Speaking to journalists on Tuesday in Abuja, Tony Okocha, Chairman of the APC Caretaker Committee in Rivers, maintained that Fubara’s political infractions cannot be erased simply by joining the ruling party. His comments come in the wake of Fubara’s Sallah visit to President Bola Tinubu, a move that has sparked political speculation.

“Even if Fubara decides to join the APC, it has nothing to do with the state of emergency declared in Rivers State. His sins cannot be forgiven just because he comes to our party,” Okocha stated firmly.

“You don’t jump into APC and expect instant forgiveness. That would reduce the party to a dumping ground for those who commit political misdemeanors and hope for reconciliation without consequence,” he added.

Okocha further explained that there are laid down procedures for joining the APC, stressing that Fubara has not followed any of them.

“He hasn’t spoken to me or any party leader. In politics, all action starts from the grassroots. If he truly intends to join, he must begin from his ward. I’ve asked around, and no such defection notice has reached us,” he said.

When asked whether Fubara’s meeting with President Tinubu was cause for concern within the APC, Okocha dismissed such fears.

“How can we be worried that someone visited our President during Sallah? Other dignitaries like Chief Osoba also paid homage. Even Chief Nyesom Wike was seen with the President. We can’t dictate who the President meets with,” he said.

Okocha also shot down reports of reconciliation moves initiated by Fubara, insisting there are no talks underway.

“There is nothing like reconciliation. We’ve heard no such thing,” he concluded.

The remarks underscore rising political tensions in Rivers State and hint at deepening divisions as the state grapples with ongoing governance and party loyalty disputes.