Rosemary Nwisi, Port Harcourt
SIX leaders of the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) in the Oyibo area of the river state have joined the Congress of All Progressives (APC).
This is despite the deepening crisis in the party, which is characterized by suspensions and counter-suspensions.
The defectors – Adolphus Nweke, Onyema Ihenna, Ibekwe Okere, among others – said the PDP was not a better party. They hoped that the party structure would strengthen after this period of crisis. “We would rather be active members of the APC and participate in the job dividend than respond to big names and die in serious trouble,” they said.
The defectors were received on Wednesday by Oyib party leader Gift Okere and Transitional Committee chairman Chamberlain Okorie.
Okorie noted that the PDP in Oyibo Ward 2 crashed after defeating key executives at the APC. He called on new members to work on winning the APC in the next election.
He warned them of the need for unity, co-operation and hard work to ensure the party’s victory, although he assured them of the great benefit under Transport Minister Rotimi Amaechi.
Okorie argued that there are no government projects in the council, despite the hard work and commitment of criminals in the PDP.
He said: “The PDP administration has done more harm than good to the people of Oyibo. There is no Wike project in the council. When Rotimi Amaechi was governor, the Oyibo Council noted key human development projects and programs that the descendants will be proud of.
“Your decision to join the APC is a good one and you will confirm it soon. Amaechi has nothing to give you, but I assure you that she will continue to fight for the consolidation of true democracy. “