Bayelsa State witnessed a major political shift as Governor Douye Diri officially joined the All Progressives Congress (APC), abandoning the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in a ceremony dubbed a “long overdue homecoming.” The November 3 event at Yenagoa’s Samson Siasia Sports Complex drew massive crowds despite rainy conditions, with supporters chanting “APC!” and flooding surrounding streets.

High-Profile Endorsement for Defection

Vice President Kashim Shettima represented President Bola Tinubu at the event, where Senate President Godswill Akpabio and Progressive Governors Forum Chairman Hope Uzodimma praised Diri’s “courageous decision.” Eight state governors attended, including leaders from Akwa Ibom, Delta, Ondo, Enugu, Kogi, Kwara, Edo, and Ogun states.

Governor Diri’s 15-Point Justification

In a decisive speech, Governor Diri outlined these key reasons for his defection:

Irreparable erosion of PDP’s unity and common purpose
Impossible party renewal due to internal conflicts
Refusal to let Bayelsa “be buried” with PDP
Protection of lawmakers’ re-election prospects
South-South’s near-total departure from PDP
Consultation-driven decision for Bayelsa’s interest
Tinubu’s consistent support for Ijaw people
Commencement of Lagos-Calabar Coastal Road project
Absence of federal interference in Diri’s re-election
Prompt action on stalled Nembe-Brass Road after 60 years
Tax waiver for 60MW gas turbine imports
Federal endorsement of Agge Deep Seaport
Strategic alignment with Bayelsa-friendly leadership
Leaving a “sinking ship” for development opportunities
Unified APC acceptance in Bayelsa

Diri emphasized: “This isn’t just my defection – it’s the Ijaw nation joining APC. We tried saving PDP, but undertakers were already burying it.”

Unification and Future Plans

As Bayelsa’s new APC leader, Diri pledged to unite members, targeting “99% victory in 2027 elections.” The defection includes 23 of 24 state assembly members, 2 senators, and all council chairmen, significantly altering the state’s political landscape.