The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has raised serious concerns over the defection of Rivers State Governor Siminalayi Fubara to the All Progressives Congress (APC), describing it as a move that threatens Nigeria’s democratic balance and accelerates the risk of a “one-party state.”
In a statement issued on Tuesday night, National Publicity Secretary Ini Enemobong criticized Fubara’s decision as self-inflicted, saying it reflects personal choices rather than any wrongdoing on the part of the PDP.
“This development, as regrettable as it is, exemplifies the legal principle volenti non fit injuria — to one who consents, no harm can be done,” the party stated.
The PDP emphasized that Fubara’s path to defection was paved by his own actions, not external pressures. The party also recalled the extensive support he received from the PDP, civil society organizations, and ordinary Nigerians during challenging times preceding his exit.
“Governor Fubara enjoyed unwavering support from our party, civil society groups, and countless citizens. Yet, he chose to abandon that backing,” the statement noted.
In a pointed warning, the PDP urged Fubara to resist becoming sympathetic toward those the party claims influenced his decision to leave.
The statement even referenced the psychological phenomenon of Stockholm Syndrome, cautioning against developing loyalty to one’s oppressors.
Beyond expressing regret for Fubara personally, the PDP framed the defection as a broader threat to Nigeria’s democratic institutions.
The party argued that the situation in Rivers State highlights a deeper structural challenge in Nigerian politics, where individuals wield greater influence than institutions, often leveraging federal power to suppress opposition.
“The Rivers scenario underscores the dysfunction in our democracy, where powerful actors can manipulate federal mechanisms to neutralize opponents,” the PDP said.
The party further warned that the APC appears to be systematically shrinking political space, consolidating its dominance, and endangering the principles of multiparty democracy.
“The ruling party’s relentless pursuit of one-party dominance poses a grave threat to democracy in Nigeria,” the PDP declared.
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Concluding its statement, the PDP called on citizens, democratic institutions, and international partners to remain vigilant and resist what it described as a slide toward authoritarianism, stressing that collective action is essential at this critical political moment.
“Everyone must rise together to oppose this alarming march toward electoral authoritarianism,” the party urged.
