The factional chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Rivers State, Tony Okocha, has warned that unless suspended Governor Sim Fubara seeks genuine reconciliation, not even a defection to the APC will save him from impeachment.
Okocha issued the warning during a media briefing at the APC national secretariat in Abuja on Tuesday, June 10, 2025. He emphasized that even the reversal of the state of emergency declared in Rivers would not prevent Fubara’s removal from office, questioning why the governor has been lobbying for reinstatement.
Okocha also criticized former Rivers State Governor and ex-Minister of Transportation, Rotimi Chibuike Amaechi, calling him a “partyless politician,” noting that Amaechi is no longer a member of the APC.
When asked if Fubara’s defection to the APC would absolve him of any wrongdoing, Okocha stated firmly:
“Fubara’s suspension and the declaration of a state of emergency in Rivers State had nothing to do with politics. It was a result of his misconduct. He himself admitted that the President saved his job by declaring a state of emergency.
“Don’t forget that the Supreme Court, in its judgment, said there was no government in Rivers State. If there was no government, something had to be done—hence, the declaration of a state of emergency.
“If Fubara decides to join the APC, it changes nothing. His sins won’t be forgiven just because he joins our party. That’s not how it works. He hasn’t spoken to me. If he wants to join, he must come through the front door, not sneak in through the window. Every defection must begin at the ward level. I’ve spoken with the ward chairmen—none has reported his defection to the APC.”
Okocha continued:
“You can’t just jump into the APC and expect all your wrongdoings to be wiped clean. If that were the case, the APC would become a dumping ground for politicians who violate the law and seek refuge through political maneuvering.”
When asked whether he was concerned about Fubara’s frequent meetings with President Bola Tinubu, Okocha replied:
“Why should I be worried that someone visited my President? Don’t forget it was the Sallah season. Former Governor Osoba also paid a Sallah visit. I’m sure you saw the President in the company of Chief E. N. Wike…
“We can’t be worried, and we can’t dictate who the President chooses to meet. Perhaps if I had applied to see Mr. President, I would have been there with my team.
“I’m not a prophet of doom, but based on what I know, I’m not aware of any genuine reconciliation efforts. Is visiting the President the same as making peace? The President has advised them to make peace, but there’s been no action. I haven’t seen any indication that Fubara or his team are taking steps toward reconciliation.”
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