Rivers, Bayelsa will soon join APC – Akpabio

Senate President Godswill Akpabio has expressed optimism that Rivers and Bayelsa states will soon join the All Progressives Congress, APC, as the party intensifies efforts to consolidate political control across the South-South region ahead of the 2027 general elections.

Akpabio made the remarks on Saturday during a grand reception in Uyo to officially welcome Governor Umo Eno of Akwa Ibom State into the APC.

While addressing dignitaries at the event, Akpabio praised the recent wave of defections into the ruling party and hinted that more states in the region would follow suit.

“Governor Sheriff of Delta State, thank you for joining the progressive family and moving the South-South in a progressive direction,” Akpabio said.

“Governor Umo Eno, after you, Rivers State will just tumble; after Rivers State, Bayelsa will join.”

The Senate President also celebrated the party’s electoral success in Edo State, highlighting the victory of Monday Okpebholo and describing him as “an amiable leader.”

Governor Umo Eno had earlier in April hinted at leaving the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) due to internal disputes. He officially defected to the APC on June 6 at a well-attended event in Uyo, the state capital. The event drew members of the Progressive Governors Forum and top APC chieftains.

Akpabio’s remarks signal the party’s continued push to strengthen its influence across the oil-rich South-South, traditionally a PDP stronghold.