The political landscape in Rivers State has taken another dramatic turn, as the State High Court invalidated the July 2024 congresses of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), organized by allies of the Minister of Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike.
The court, presided over by Justice Stephen Jumbo, declared the congresses at the ward, local government, and state levels void from inception, citing their non-compliance with legal orders.
The ruling further complicates the ongoing internal struggles within the PDP, exacerbated by the refusal of Wike’s faction to honor a court injunction halting the process.
The controversial congresses produced Chukwuemeka Aaron, a known Wike loyalist, as state party chairman, leaving Governor Siminalayi Fubara and his supporters on the sidelines.

The congresses, endorsed by the PDP National Working Committee (NWC) but opposed by the PDP Governors’ Forum, sparked a rift that saw Governor Fubara’s faction abandoning the party entirely. They defected to the Action Peoples Party (APP), where they participated in the October 5, 2024, local government elections, marking a significant realignment in Rivers State politics.

The G-60 group in the House of Representatives, through its spokesperson Ikenga Ugochinyere (PDP, Imo), dismissed the congresses as an illegitimate gathering orchestrated by Wike for his loyalists. “It was nothing more than a jamboree with friends,” Ugochinyere remarked, adding that the process undermined the party’s integrity.
Amidst the fallout, the PDP in Rivers State is yet to officially respond to the judgment. Publicity Secretary Kenneth Yorwika confirmed that the party was reviewing the court decision, leaving its next course of action uncertain.
The court ruling and subsequent fragmentation of the PDP underscore deep-seated divisions within the party, raising questions about its ability to maintain cohesion ahead of the next electoral cycle.
The decision also serves as a blow to Wike’s influence in Rivers State, potentially altering the state’s political dynamics.

Former President Goodluck Jonathan has assured Rivers State Governor Siminalayi Fubara that the political challenges he is currently facing will ultimately strengthen him as a leader.
Jonathan made this remark on Sunday at the Etche Festival of Food, Art, and Culture in Nihi Community, Etche Local Government Area, during the 10th anniversary of the coronation of Eze Nwala, the Onye Ishi Agwuru III of Ulakwo-Umuselem.

Jonathan, who was also honored with the chieftaincy title of Eze Udo 1 of Etche, urged Rivers residents to stand by Fubara, emphasizing that adversity is part of leadership.
“Nobody becomes a general without fighting battles,” Jonathan said. “These challenges are shaping you, and with the support of the people and God’s guidance, you will emerge stronger.”

The former president warned that unrest in Rivers State, the heart of the Niger Delta, could have far-reaching effects on the nation’s economy.
He called for peace, noting that political offices are temporary. “Allow the governor to fulfill his mandate. After his tenure, others will have their turn,” Jonathan added.
Jonathan praised the agricultural contributions of Etche, calling it the “food basket of the state,” and commended Eze Nwala for a decade of impactful leadership. Eze Nwala reflected on his reign, highlighting milestones in the development of Etche land.
Governor Fubara, who was conferred with the title Dike Oha 1 of Etche by the Supreme Council of Etche Traditional Rulers, expressed gratitude for the support he has received from the Etche and Ikwerre people.
He pledged to continue delivering developmental projects, including ongoing road reconstructions in Egwi, Afara, and Mba communities.

“Your support means everything to me, and I am committed to justifying the trust you have placed in me,” Fubara said.
He also thanked Jonathan for his mentorship and steadfast support during difficult times.

The event underscored the cultural richness of the Etche people and reinforced the call for peace and unity in Rivers State amid political tensions.

Governor Siminalayi Fubara of Rivers State has credited God with turning recent political challenges into a source of strength, guiding the state toward a new era of growth, development, and political freedom.
Speaking at a Thanksgiving Service held in honor of His Royal Majesty, Eze Chike Worlu Wodo, Eze Oha Apara IV, Fubara emphasized his unwavering faith that God’s purpose is at work amid Rivers State’s challenges.
He said what his detractors meant for evil God has turned around for the good of Rivers State.
The Thanksgiving Service took place at the Shepherd’s Hill Parish of the Redeemed Christian Church of God in Mgbuoba Community, Obio/Akpor Local Government Area, where parish leaders presented Fubara with copies of the Holy Bible.
In his address, Fubara expressed gratitude, stating that what his detractors intended for harm, God had used to elevate his administration and bolster the government’s resolve.

“Many called it trouble, but I see it as God’s purpose for a new direction for our state,” Fubara remarked.
“Rather than growing weak, we are becoming stronger and bolder each day. With God’s guidance, we are committed to completing our work and standing firmly for Him.”

The governor further underscored the power of gratitude in gaining clarity and assurance, especially during challenging times.
He expressed joy in joining the Wodo family in offering thanks to God and celebrated Eze Chike Worlu Wodo’s appointment as Chairman of the Rivers State Traditional Rulers Council. Fubara noted the enthusiasm with which Eze Wodo worshipped, comparing it to King David’s joyful dancing before God in the Bible.

“It’s one of the reasons God loved King David,” Fubara said. “Even as a traditional ruler, you still hold God in the highest esteem. God will continue to lift you beyond human imagination.”

As part of his support for the church’s work, Governor Fubara donated ₦100 million to assist in its evangelism efforts, dedicating the donation as a tribute to Eze Wodo’s faith and commitment.

Fubara concluded by urging the church to continue praying for his administration and for the peace of Rivers State, assuring that while human perspectives may see challenges, God’s plan will prevail.
He likened prayers to deposits in a bank, saying, “There is no prayer God does not answer.”