A former commissioner for Health under Rotimi Ameachi and stalwart of the All Progressive Congress (APC) in Rivers state, Dr. Sampson Parker, has defected to the People’s Democratic Party (PDP).
Parker who was described as one of Amaechi’s strong allies and served as commissioner under the minister during his term as governor for 8 years said that following Amaechi to the All Progressives Congress, APC, was a mistake..
Dr. Parker also described his defection as home coming to the PDP family, stating that his conscience and soul are at peace with his decision as he led his followers to defect to the Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, in Okochiri, Okrika Local Government area of the State.
He said, “There comes a time in the life of a man when he is called by man and God to make decisions that are right but may not be popular. Those are pivotal times in the life of such an individual when he must look into the deep recesses of his heart.
“He must consider what the judgment of posterity will be, the impact on his family, community and friends. Yes, when we get
to those crossroads of history we deemphasize self but rather pray that history and generations
unborn will be kind and understanding when they pass judgement.
“Like a man who has been on a long journey in a far away land looks forward to coming home, so it is with me. This is homecoming from a long journey into the land of experience.
“The Odili political family shrunk when we journeyed to other places but this is the beginning of our comeback.”
Wike Lauds Parker
Speaking afterwards, Rivers State Governor, Nyesom Wike lauded Parker for taking the bold step to return to his former Party.
Wike recalled the role played by Parker in the emergence of former Governor Rotimi Chibike Amaechi in 2007 and that his coming back to the PDP would add value to the Party
“Dr. Parker was one of those God used alongside some of us to bring Amaechi in as Governor of Rivers State in 2007.
“We thought that from that time, everybody will be united, but we didn’t know that some persons had different plans, but God’s plan is always the best.
“When I was leaving in 2012, I told Dr. Parker that things are not moving well and I am going. But he insisted that I should remain as there was need for us to continue to be together.
“But I am happy today that my friend and brother has realized what I told him then and has returned to the PDP,” the Governor said.
Chidi Lloyd’s Defection
In August, Former Leader of the Rivers State House of Assembly and Chieftain of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Dr. Chidi Lloyd also defected to the PDP.
Lloyd who apologized for his role in the crisis that engulfed the state Assembly in 2013, which led to the injury on the head another Assembly member, Michael Chindah, cited that his defection was informed by the magnanimity of governor Nyesom Wike and hs good works to his people.
Receiving Lloyd to the PDP, Wike said politicians who bear bitterness in their minds against others hardly make progress, adding that his success in politics and governance is because he carries no grudge against anybody.
He said during his second term inauguration, he asked for forgiveness from those he offended and also promised to forgive those who hurt him.
Wike said, today, Dr. Chidi Lloyd has publicly expressed regret of his role in the 2013 crisis at the state House of Assembly and apologised.
“Forgiveness is key for every Christian. God has forgiven me, why can’t I forgive others? We have also met with Hon. Michael Chinda and others, and got their approval for reconciliation.
“I love to attract people to our party because I am not a greedy politician. I believe that the more the merrier. I will do what is in the best interest of the people and the party.
“Politics of progress does not undermine the importance of friendship. I believe that we must forget yesterday, and put ourselves together for a better tomorrow,” he said.
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