PDP Reacts to Gov. Fubara’s Defection to APC

The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has reacted to the defection of Rivers State Governor, Sir Siminalayi Fubara, to the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC).

In a statement issued on Tuesday by its National Publicity Secretary, Comrade Ini Ememobong, the PDP described the move as “pitiful,” noting that the governor willingly chose the path that led to his departure.

The party said Fubara’s defection aligns with the legal maxim volenti non fit injuria — “to one who is willing, no harm is done,” stressing that he cannot accuse the PDP or any group of failing to protect him after making a voluntary decision.

The PDP added that while individuals under intense political pressure may experience “temporary amnesia,” Governor Fubara should acknowledge the support he received from the party, civil society groups, and Nigerians during the crisis preceding his defection.

The statement also warned against the governor falling into “Stockholm Syndrome” and expressed concern over what it described as a democracy where individuals appear stronger than institutions. It accused the ruling party of using federal might to weaken opponents and shrinking the political space.

The PDP reiterated that Nigeria’s democracy is “under severe attack” and urged citizens and the international community to resist what it called a drift toward “electoral authoritarianism.”