Governor Douye Diri quits PDP and joins APC, saying the move serves Bayelsa’s unity, peace, and development
Governor Douye Diri has said his decision to leave the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) for the All Progressives Congress (APC) was made in the overall interest of Bayelsa State, stressing that the move was aimed at deepening peace, unity, and development.
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Speaking on Sunday at the 14th Bayelsa Thanksgiving Day held at the Ecumenical Centre in Igbogene, Yenagoa, Diri explained that someone had to make the bold decision to realign the state politically and that he did so on behalf of Bayelsans.
It was the first time the governor publicly commented on his resignation from the PDP since 15 October 2025.
He said that although many might not immediately understand his choice, time would prove it was motivated by selfless intent.
The Governor Douye Diri defection comes ahead of his formal reception into the APC scheduled for Monday, marking one of the most consequential political realignments in Bayelsa’s recent history.
Diri expressed satisfaction at the presence of political leaders from various parties at the thanksgiving service, describing it as a testament to the state’s growing maturity and cohesion.
He said Bayelsans had every reason to be grateful for the peace and stability currently enjoyed.
“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. The peace and security we enjoy today are reasons for gratitude. Politics should be for development, not for destroying your brother.”
Delta State Governor Sheriff Oborevwori, represented by his Senior Policy Adviser, Funkekeme Solomon, urged Bayelsans to remain united, saying the state’s progress depended on its people’s cohesion.
The Minister of State for Petroleum (Oil), Senator Heineken Lokpobiri, commended Diri for what he described as a “timely and courageous step.” He noted that Bayelsa could no longer afford to remain in opposition when key national policies and projects were being shaped at the centre.
Similarly, Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC) Managing Director, Dr Samuel Ogbuku, praised the governor’s developmental strides and described him as a “godsend to Bayelsa.”
Delivering the sermon, Bishop Mike Okonkwo of The Redeemed Evangelical Mission urged Bayelsans to maintain gratitude, faith, and unity, assuring that divine favour accompanies thankful hearts.
Other dignitaries at the event included the governor’s wives, Dr Gloria Diri and Justice Patience Ama-Diri; Deputy Governor Senator Lawrence Ewhrudjakpo; Senators Benson Agadaga and Sunday Katung; the Speaker of the Bayelsa House of Assembly, Abraham Ingobere; and the Chief Judge, Justice Matilda Ayemieye.
Traditional rulers, clergy, captains of industry, and senior government officials also attended, underscoring the inclusive and unifying tone of the thanksgiving.
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The Governor Douye Diri defection represents a significant political shift in the Niger Delta, one that may reshape alliances and signal a new era of cooperation between Bayelsa and the federal government.
