Governor Douye Diri of Bayelsa State is reportedly preparing to defect from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) to the All Progressives Congress (APC).

Sources indicate that his formal declaration has been delayed due to ongoing negotiations with key APC leaders in the state. These include former Governor Timipre Sylva and Minister of State for Petroleum Resources, Heineken Lokpobiri. The discussions focus on the control and structure of the APC in Bayelsa State.

This potential defection has generated significant political tension in Bayelsa. The PDP has expressed concerns, suggesting that such a move would constitute a betrayal of the mandate that elected Diri into office.

However, high-ranking APC officials have hinted that Diri’s formal defection could be finalized as early as next week. They confirmed that discussions with the governor are “well advanced,” dismissing rumors that opposition from influential party members like Sylva and Lokpobiri might derail the move.

Nze Chidi Duru, the Deputy Organizing Secretary of the APC, commented on the situation. He stated that the party is open to Diri’s membership, describing the APC as a “large family” that welcomes all Nigerians who support its vision and leadership.

Duru explained, “It is for him to decide. The APC is a large family and does not segregate. We welcome Nigerians of age who believe in the vision of the APC, its manifesto, and the leadership of the party and the country. If anybody wants to identify with the APC, he knows the step to take.”

Regarding concerns about opposition from Sylva and Lokpobiri, Duru affirmed that both are loyal party members who have significantly contributed to building the APC in Bayelsa State. He emphasized that internal reconciliation and consensus-building are natural in politics, and any disagreements would eventually be resolved in the party’s collective interest.

APC Vice Chairman for the South-East, Ijeoma Arodiogbu, provided further insights. He confirmed that Diri’s defection plans were concluded but faced delays due to internal challenges. These include issues with his Deputy Governor, Senator Seriake Dickson, and political pressures from the camp of former President Goodluck Jonathan.

Arodiogbu stated, “Yes, I know that Diri is coming to APC, but the challenges he is facing with his deputy governor, Senator Seriake Dickson, and of course Jonathan has not made him to make any open statement about his defection. It would have happened about three months ago, but his deputy said he’s not moving with him. He looked at the former governor and also has some reluctance. But it’s conclusive that he’s coming over to us.”

Arodiogbu also disclosed that the APC leadership is awaiting a date to formally receive Diri in Yenagoa, suggesting that the event “could happen possibly next week.”

Other Political Developments

In related news, the PDP in Taraba State has faced defections, with an aide to the governor commenting on the situation. Additionally, sources suggest that a certain political figure is likely to become the next PDP National Chairman. The court has set a date for judgment on a lawsuit related to the PDP’s national convention.

There is also growing concern within the PDP regarding Governor Diri’s potential defection. Some party leaders question how he can effectively govern without a strong political platform. A former PDP National Legal Adviser has even called for his removal from office.

In a related development, another member of the House of Representatives has defected from the PDP to the APC, indicating ongoing political realignments.