Mr. Rotimi Amaechi, the former governor of Rivers State, may just need to reconsider his decision to stick with the All Progressives Congress (APC). Mr. Amaechi should consider two reasons to return to the PDP as the 2023 general elections approach after nearly a decade in the All Progressives Congress.
Amaechi was one of the most influential PDP lawmakers to abandon the party in 2014. Others were Atiku Abubakar, the former vice president; Aminu Tambuwal, the current governor of Sokoto State; and Bukola Saraki, the former governor of Kwara State. Amaechi is one of the few who is still in the APC.
The rift inside the APC’s Rivers State chapter is the first reason Mr. Amaechi should consider returning to the PDP. Things haven’t gone well for the chapter since the party’s establishment. And, based on current trends, the crisis may persist beyond the general elections in 2023. As a result, Amaechi may not be able to head a powerful party in the state’s south-south.
When a section loyal to the former member of the Senate, Abe, proclaimed its support for Mr. Bola Tinubu, the schism between Mr. Amaechi and Magnus Abe got even deeper. It is unquestionably necessary to explain that Amaechi was not brought along. The Rivers State branch is fractious, which should prompt Amaechi to return to his original political stance.
Secondly, the former governor may get another chance to head Rivers State’s political system. He used to be a formidable opponent. When Nyesom Wike took charge, however, Amaechi’s power dwindled quickly. Now, the former governor has an opportunity to redeem himself.
If Amaechi rejoins the PDP now or before the 2023 general elections, he will be able to challenge Wike for control of the party in Rivers State. Of course, Wike is not eligible for a third term as Governor of Rivers State. The PDP ticket can then be obtained by another person.
If the All Progressives Congress is unable to help Amaechi, he should just return to his camp, where he formerly had such esteem.