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The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, FCT, Nyesom Wike, has announced that the 16 defected members of the Rivers State House of Assembly are permitted to leave the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP).

Wike made this statement on Friday while speaking to reporters, emphasizing that his group will continue to collaborate with the remaining lawmakers who remain loyal to the party.

According to DAILY POST, 16 lawmakers, including Speaker Martins Amaewhule, defected to the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) during a plenary session of the Rivers State House of Assembly on Friday.

The former governor of Rivers State reacted to this development by calling it unfortunate and noted that internal conflicts within the party contributed to the lawmakers' departure.

“Well, it’s unfortunate. I have always maintained that everyone has the right to make a choice. The party is currently deeply factionalized. According to the Constitution, when a party is factionalized, its members are allowed to leave the party.

“You will see that not everyone has left. I believe 16 or 17 of them have departed out of 27 total members. We still have a significant number, around 10, and we will continue to work together. They never informed me, but they have the right to make their decision,” he stated.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why did the lawmakers leave the PDP?

The lawmakers left the PDP due to internal conflicts within the party, which has become factionalized.

How many lawmakers remain with the PDP?

Approximately 10 lawmakers remain loyal to the PDP after the defections.

What did Nyesom Wike say about the defectors?

Nyesom Wike expressed that it is unfortunate that the defectors chose to leave, but he respects their right to make that choice.