Bayelsa State Governor, Senator Douye Diri, has formally announced his defection from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) to the All Progressives Congress (APC), declaring that the decision was made “in the overall interest of Bayelsa State.”
Diri, who made the declaration on Sunday during the 14th Bayelsa Thanksgiving Day at the Ecumenical Centre in Igbogene, Yenagoa, said he took the step to align the state with the ruling party at the federal level for accelerated growth and development.
“Somebody had to take the decision, and I took it on behalf of the state, in the best interest of Bayelsa,” Diri said.
“Some of you might not understand now, but later it will be clear to all.”
It was the first time the governor publicly spoke about his October 15 resignation from the PDP, ending months of speculation over his political future.
“Politics Should Be for Development”
Governor Diri said his administration had prioritized unity, infrastructure, and peace since assuming office, adding that Bayelsa had made notable progress under his leadership.
“The peace and security we enjoy today are reasons for gratitude,” he said. “Politics should be for development, not for destroying one another. This gathering is a testimony to the unity in our state.”
The governor’s defection marks a major political shift in the South-South region, where the PDP has traditionally held sway.
Political Leaders, Clergy Hail Diri’s Decision
The thanksgiving service, attended by dignitaries across party lines, was filled with messages of goodwill and commendation for the governor’s leadership.
Representing the Delta State Governor, Sheriff Oborevwori, Senior Policy Adviser Funkekeme Solomon urged Bayelsans to remain united, saying,
“The development of Bayelsa depends on our collective peace and harmony.”
The Minister of State for Petroleum (Oil), Senator Heineken Lokpobiri, praised Diri’s decision as “timely and strategic,” describing him as “a unifier.”
“Bayelsa should not remain in opposition while key national decisions are being made. Governor Diri’s defection is a smart and patriotic move,” Lokpobiri said.
Similarly, Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC) Managing Director, Dr. Samuel Ogbuku, applauded Diri’s record of achievements and described him as “a godsend to Bayelsa.”
“His vision and humility have set a new tone for leadership in our state. We pray for divine guidance as he begins this new chapter,” Ogbuku added.
Clergy, Elders Urge Unity
Delivering the sermon, Bishop Mike Okonkwo, General Overseer of The Redeemed Evangelical Mission (TREM), preached on “Reasons Why We Should Thank God,” reminding the congregation that “God never abandons His children.”
Prominent leaders, including Senator Konbowei Benson, Head of Service of the Federation, Dame Didi Walson-Jack, Bayelsa Elders Council Chairman, Rear Admiral Gboribiogha John-Jonah (rtd.), and Ijaw National Congress President, Prof. Benjamin Okaba, commended Diri’s leadership and called for continued peace and cooperation.
“Governor Diri has shown courage and maturity in leadership,” Prof. Okaba said. “What Bayelsa needs now is unity and purposeful direction.”
A Star-Studded Attendance
The event was graced by top political, religious, and traditional figures, including Diri’s wives, Dr. Gloria Diri and Justice Patience Ama-Diri, Deputy Governor Senator Lawrence Ewhrudjakpo, and Hajia Fatima Tajudeen-Abbas, wife of the Speaker of the House of Representatives.
Others present were Senators Benson Agadaga and Sunday Katung, members of the House of Representatives from Bayelsa, Speaker of the Bayelsa House of Assembly Abraham Ingobere, Chief Judge Justice Matilda Ayemieye, King Alfred Diete-Spiff, Mrs. Margaret Alamieyeseigha, Chief David Lyon, and other notable personalities from across the country.
Diri to Be Formally Received into APC
Governor Diri is expected to be formally received into the APC today (Monday) in a high-profile ceremony that political observers describe as one of the most significant realignments in Bayelsa’s political history.
With Diri’s defection, the APC consolidates its growing influence in the South-South, marking yet another major victory for the ruling party ahead of future elections.
