Bayelsa State Deputy Governor Lawrence Ewhrudjakpo has publicly distanced himself from Governor Douye Diri’s recent decision to defect from the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) to the All Progressives Congress (APC). This move has created significant political tension within the state.
Governor Diri’s Defection and Ewhrudjakpo’s Stance
Governor Diri announced his resignation from the PDP through his spokesman, Daniel Alabrah, on Wednesday. However, he did not provide specific reasons for his decision to join the APC. In contrast, Deputy Governor Ewhrudjakpo chose not to attend the State Executive Council meeting where the governor announced his decision, signaling his refusal to follow suit.
Internal Party Reactions
Sources within the PDP confirmed that Ewhrudjakpo, along with other key party leaders such as Seriake Dickson and some former lawmakers, remain loyal to the PDP. This has led to internal friction, with some APC-aligned lawmakers already considering impeachment proceedings against Ewhrudjakpo for his refusal to defect.
Background and Implications
Ewhrudjakpo, a lawyer and former senator for Bayelsa West, has been a long-standing member of the PDP. His decision to remain with the party, despite the governor’s defection, underscores a significant political divide. This situation mirrors past instances where defections have led to political realignments and potential impeachment threats.
Meanwhile, several local government chairmen in Bayelsa have already followed Governor Diri to the APC, indicating a fragmented but significant shift in the state’s political landscape.
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