Federal Capital Territory Minister Nyesom Wike has described Bayelsa State Governor Douye Diri’s resignation from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) as “very embarrassing.” The criticism came during Wike’s media briefing in Abuja on Friday.
Governor Diri stepped down from the PDP while chairing the party’s zoning committee for its November elective national convention. Wike expressed disappointment, stating: “It is very embarrassing. The governor was the chairman of the convention committee. Even though I knew from the beginning they were playing games.”
APC Defection Talks Underway
Reliable sources indicate Governor Diri is preparing to join the All Progressives Congress (APC). His planned defection faces delays due to internal negotiations within the ruling party. Key APC figures involved include former Governor Timipre Sylva and Petroleum Minister Heineken Lokpobiri.
Discussions center on control of Bayelsa’s party structure. Senior APC members confirm talks with Diri are “well advanced,” dismissing speculation that Sylva and Lokpobiri might block the move.
Political Fallout in Bayelsa
The development has escalated political tension in Bayelsa State. PDP leadership condemns Diri’s exit as a betrayal of his electoral mandate. Meanwhile, APC chieftains suggest his defection could be finalized next week.
Wike concluded with skepticism about PDP’s internal dynamics, reinforcing his critical stance on the party’s recent developments.