The dissolved faction of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Rivers State, loyal to former governor Rotimi Amaechi, has refuted claims of defection to the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and denied any collaboration with Minister Nyesom Wike, addressing speculation surrounding their political stance.
Led by Chief Emeka Beke, the faction held a news briefing in Port Harcourt, where Beke emphasized the faction’s loyalty to Amaechi and clarified the circumstances surrounding a viral video showing him interacting with Wike at a recent event.
Beke clarified that the encounter with Wike occurred at a social gathering celebrating the 60th birthday of Isobo Jack, president of the Boys Company of Nigeria, of which Beke is a founding member. He explained that while he exchanged pleasantries with attendees, there was no alignment with Wike nor any intention of defection to the PDP.
Addressing the viral video, Beke emphasized the cordial nature of his interaction with Wike, characterized by playful banter rather than political collaboration. He reaffirmed his allegiance to Amaechi’s political family, asserting his commitment to their cause despite social interactions with individuals from differing political backgrounds.
Furthermore, Darlington Uwauju, the dissolved APC’s publicity secretary, discredited the Chief Tony Okocha-led APC Caretaker Committee and contested the legitimacy of the national executive’s dissolution of their faction. Uwauju cited party regulations stipulating a four-year tenure, indicating that their tenure should continue until October 2025, challenging the authority of the National Working Committee to dissolve their elected executive.
The statements from the Rivers State APC faction underscored their dedication to Amaechi’s leadership and reiterated their commitment to the party’s original mandate amid ongoing political turbulence within the state.
