The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, has openly reacted to the defection of 17 lawmakers of the Rivers State House of Assembly to the All Progressives Congress (APC).

Wike said the move came as a shock to him. He disclosed that the lawmakers did not consult him before leaving the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP).

Speaking at the Assembly Quarters on Saturday, the former Rivers governor admitted that the decision affected him personally.

He described the defection as painful, especially considering his long political relationship with the lawmakers involved.

On December 5, 2025, 17 members of the Rivers State House of Assembly, led by Speaker Martins Amaewhule, formally dumped the PDP for the APC.

The development immediately altered the political balance in the state legislature. It also deepened existing tensions in Rivers politics.

The defection happened shortly after the state exited a six-month emergency rule. Political actors had hoped the period would usher in stability.

Instead, the situation took another dramatic turn.

Days later, Governor Siminalayi Fubara also left the PDP for the APC.

His decision further escalated the crisis within the party.

The move signaled a major realignment of power in the state.

Addressing the lawmakers, Wike expressed disappointment over how the defection was handled.

He said he would have appreciated being informed ahead of time.

According to him, the lack of consultation was troubling.

“Let me thank you Mr Speaker even though it affected me with 17 of you moving out to join APC without consulting me and leaving 10 other members here,” Wike said.

He used the moment to warn the national leadership of the PDP.

Wike blamed internal weaknesses within the party for the loss of lawmakers.

He urged party leaders to act decisively to prevent further damage.

“This is what I have been advising my National Chairman, keep your house in order so that the enemies will not come and take our people,” he stated.

Wike said political opponents were actively targeting PDP members.

He stressed the need for constant vigilance.

According to him, disunity makes any party vulnerable.

“The enemies are hovering around and when you are not vigilant they take your people, that is why you must be at alert to make sure that enemies don’t take your people,” he added.

Despite the setback, the minister assured lawmakers who remained in the PDP of his full support.He promised they would not be abandoned. Wike said loyalty would not go unrewarded.

“Those of you still remaining, whenever you choose, I’m here, but what I will not do is to let you suffer in your life,” he said.