Yenagoa, the capital of Bayelsa State, was set for a political shake-up today as Governor Douye Diri officially dumped the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) for the All Progressives Congress (APC).
The defection, which took place during the 14th Bayelsa Thanksgiving Day at the Ecumenical Centre in Igbogene, drew national attention as top APC leaders, including Vice President Kashim Shettima and APC National Chairman Nentawe Yilwatda, gathered in the state to welcome Diri.
With his defection, Diri becomes the 25th governor in the APC and the fourth PDP governor to switch allegiance this year, joining Delta’s Sheriff Oborevwori, Akwa Ibom’s Umo Eno, and Enugu’s Peter Mbah.
Speaking for the first time on his decision, Governor Diri said his move was guided by the interest of Bayelsa rather than personal ambition.
“Somebody had to take the decision (to leave the PDP) and I took it on behalf of the state. I took it in the best interest of the state. Some of you might not understand now but later it will be clear to all,” Diri said.
He emphasized that politics should drive unity and development, not division, urging Bayelsans to remain peaceful and focused.
“Politics is for development and not to kill your brother. The gathering here is a testimony of the unity in the state,” he added.
Delta State Governor Sheriff Oborevwori, who had earlier joined the APC, commended Diri’s decision.
Represented by his Senior Policy Adviser, Funkekeme Solomon, he said Bayelsa’s progress is built on unity and urged the people to support Diri’s administration.
“The strength of Bayelsa’s progress and development lies in the unity of the people,” he said.
Minister of State for Petroleum (Oil), Senator Heineken Lokpobiri, described the move as timely and strategic, stressing that the state must not remain in opposition while key national decisions are being made at the centre.
Praise from NDDC and Political Stakeholders
The NDDC Managing Director, Dr. Samuel Ogbuku, hailed the governor as a visionary leader.
He said Diri’s leadership and visible developmental strides have made him a “god-sent” to the people of Bayelsa.
“We pray for God’s wisdom to continue to guide him to do his best for the state,” Ogbuku said.
Other dignitaries, including Senator Konbowei Benson, Rear Admiral Gboribiogha John-Jonah (rtd), and Prof. Benjamin Okaba, praised Diri for prioritizing unity over political rivalry.
Meanwhile, APC chieftain Chief Ayiri Emami said the defection was a result of the growing trust in President Bola Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda and his administration’s visible impact in the South-South.
“President Tinubu’s performance has convinced many leaders. The Warri Port project and Omadino-Escravos road are proof that the president keeps his promises,” Emami said.
He added that the NDDC’s renewed focus under Dr. Ogbuku has further strengthened the region’s confidence in the ruling party.
During the thanksgiving service, Bishop Mike Okonkwo, the General Overseer of The Redeemed Evangelical Mission (TREM), delivered a sermon titled “Reasons Why We Should Thank God.”
He reminded the congregation that victory and blessings are guaranteed when people make God their priority.
As the crowd rejoiced, Governor Diri reaffirmed his commitment to peace, development, and unity, assuring that Bayelsa’s growth would remain his top priority under his new political alignment.
“The peace and security we are enjoying is another reason to thank God,” Diri declared.
