Rivers: There was a time that eleven of us in the National Assembly defected to APC, we did not lose our seats – Magnus Abe
Former representative of the Rivers South-East senatorial district, Senator Magnus Ngei, reminisced about a time when he and eleven other members defected to the All Progressives Congress (APC) while serving in the National Assembly, yet they retained their seats.
Speaking to Vanguard, Abe expressed his support for the lawmakers' decision and urged Governor Fubara to prioritize peace in Rivers State.
"There was a time that eleven of us in the National Assembly defected to APC, we did not lose our seats. We want peace in Rivers state and we will always call for peace”.
The political landscape in Rivers State has been marred by a crisis between the former governor and his successor, Fubara, regarding the state's leadership. A faction has emerged in the state House of Assembly, with the majority of lawmakers (27) aligning with the FCT minister. The Governor has faced opposition from lawmakers following an impeachment notice. These lawmakers, initially elected under the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), have switched their allegiance to the All Progressives Congress (APC). In response, the Governor has declared that they are not legally recognized as lawmakers.
Furthermore, Tony OKocha, the Caretaker Committee Chairman of the All Progressives Congress in Rivers State, has urged the State Assembly members to impeach the Governor for his remarks against them.