Bayelsa State Governor, Douye Diri, has formally dumped the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) for the All Progressives Congress (APC), marking a significant political realignment in the state’s power structure.
The governor’s defection was officially announced on Monday during a grand ceremony in Yenagoa, attended by top political figures, including Vice President Kashim Shettima, who led the APC delegation to welcome Diri into the party.
Also in attendance were Senate President Godswill Akpabio, Ogun State Governor Dapo Abiodun, Ondo State Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa, Delta State Governor Sheriff Oborevwori, Imo State Governor Hope Uzodimma, and Akwa Ibom State Governor Umo Eno.
The atmosphere was festive, with party loyalists waving APC flags, chanting slogans, and dancing to music as they celebrated Diri’s entry into the ruling party. The event was described as one of the largest political gatherings in the state in recent years.
Diri announced his defection during a briefing at the Executive Council Chamber of the Bayelsa Government House, explaining that the decision came after thorough consultations with key stakeholders.
Insightlinks has earlier reported the resignation of Diri from PDP: “After extensive consultations, today, 15 October 2025, I wish to notify you that, in keeping with the extant protocols, I, Governor Douye Diri, do hereby resign my membership of the Peoples Democratic Party,” he stated.
His move received overwhelming support from 23 members of the Bayelsa State House of Assembly, led by Speaker Abraham Ngobere. Out of the 24-member Assembly, 20 had been elected under the PDP, three under the APC, and one under the All Progressives Grand Alliance (APGA).
The defection comes at a time when the PDP is grappling with internal crises and a wave of high-profile exits ahead of the 2027 general elections.
Supporters from across Bayelsa’s eight local government areas thronged the capital, many dressed in white T-shirts and colourful attires, while others took to the streets singing and drumming to celebrate the political shift.
Diri’s move to the APC is seen by analysts as a major boost for the ruling party’s influence in the South-South region, particularly in a state long considered a PDP stronghold.
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