By Oscar Okhifo
The political realignment ahead of the 2027 general elections has claimed another prominent figure in Rivers State, with former House of Representatives member and governorship aspirant, Dr. Sokonte Davies, explaining his decision to leave the African Democratic Congress (ADC) and return to the All Progressives Congress (APC).
Davies, a former political ally of ex-Minister of Transportation, Rt. Hon. Rotimi Amaechi, and a founding member of the APC, announced his return to the ruling party on Thursday, shortly after appearing alongside Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, and other members of the Rainbow Coalition.
The development came after Davies contested the ADC governorship primary in Rivers State but failed to secure the party’s ticket, a development that was followed by his alignment with the Wike-led coalition.
The Rivers State chapter of the ADC subsequently questioned the move, amid suggestions that his failure to clinch the party’s ticket may have influenced his decision.
Davies, however, said his return to the APC followed extensive consultations with his family, political associates, constituents and elders, insisting that the decision was based on where he believed he could make the greatest contribution to Rivers State and the country.
In a statement titled, “Return to the Progressive Family: My Decision to Rejoin the All Progressives Congress (APC),” Davies said the decision was driven by what he described as “deep reflection, patriotic conviction” and a careful assessment of the political platform through which he could best serve the people.
He said: “After extensive consultation with my family, political associates, constituents, and elders, and following the cessation of my membership of the African Democratic Congress (ADC) recently, I hereby announce my decision to return to the All Progressives Congress (APC), a party in which I was privileged to be a foundational member.
“This decision has not been taken lightly. It flows from deep reflection, patriotic conviction, and a clear-eyed assessment of where I can best serve our people and contribute to the goal which is to re-elect the President to ensure the stability of the nation.”
Davies described his return to the APC as a “homecoming”, insisting that the party remained, in his view, a credible platform for progressive governance, national unity and grassroots development.
He recalled his role as a founding member of the APC and said he remained committed to the principles upon which the party was established.
“I recall with pride my role as a foundational member of the APC. I believed then, and I still believe, in its founding ideals: democracy, social justice, true federalism, inclusive growth, and respect for the rule of law.
“Events since then have only strengthened my conviction that these ideals must be defended and advanced within the APC,” he said.
On his departure from the ADC, Davies said his time in the opposition party was characterised by service and commitment, expressing appreciation to its leadership and members for the opportunity to contribute to its activities.
He stressed that his decision was not motivated by bitterness, saying political disagreements should not become personal conflicts.
“I bear no ill will. Politics is a marketplace of ideas; we can disagree without being disagreeable. I wish the party well in its future endeavours,” he said.
The former governorship aspirant pledged to work with the APC leadership and stakeholders to strengthen the party’s structures at the ward, local government, state and national levels.
“I will deploy my wealth of experience, networks, and goodwill to support the party’s vision and the government’s developmental agenda,” he said.
Davies also urged his supporters and associates to remain calm, law-abiding and focused, while calling on those who shared his political ideals to join the APC.
“Let us join hands with like-minded progressives to build the party and serve our people. I call on all who share our ideals to join the APC as we work together for a better future,” he said.
His return to the APC came against the backdrop of his recent appearance with Wike and other members of the Rainbow Coalition, further highlighting the fluid nature of political alliances in Rivers State ahead of 2027.
The development is also taking place amid a wider reshuffling of the opposition landscape, with politicians moving between the ADC, NDC, APC and other platforms as parties position themselves for the 2027 contest.
The ADC, which had initially been projected as a major platform for opposition consolidation, has itself been affected by defections and disagreements, while the emergence of the NDC has added another major platform to the opposition field.
The continued movement of politicians has raised questions about whether the opposition can overcome competing ambitions and platform differences to forge a common front ahead of the election.
For the APC, the series of defections and realignments has placed the party at the centre of a rapidly changing political landscape, although the eventual shape of the 2027 contest will depend on the candidates, alliances and political calculations that emerge before the polls.
Davies expressed appreciation to Wike for what he described as his “very warm and excited friendly reception.”
He also thanked the APC National Vice Chairman, Chief Victor Giadom, for facilitating his return to the party, as well as party elders and members for their encouragement and acceptance.
He pledged to work with other stakeholders towards building what he described as “the Nigeria and Rivers State of our dreams.”