In a dramatic political twist, Bayelsa State Governor, Douye Diri, has officially defected from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) to the All Progressives Congress (APC).
The defection, announced today at the Executive Council Chamber of the Bayelsa Government House in Yenagoa, was witnessed by top APC leaders led by Vice President Kashim Shettima.
Also in attendance were Senate President Godswill Akpabio, Governors Dapo Abiodun (Ogun), Lucky Aiyedatiwa (Ondo), Sheriff Oborevwori (Delta), Hope Uzodimma (Imo), and Umo Eno (Akwa Ibom), among other dignitaries.
Addressing the gathering, Governor Diri said his decision followed “extensive consultations”, formally announcing his resignation from the PDP.
“After extensive consultations, today, 15 October 2025, I wish to notify you that, in keeping with extant protocols, I, Governor Douye Diri, do hereby resign my membership of the Peoples Democratic Party,” he declared.
The governor’s move received the endorsement of 23 members of the Bayelsa State House of Assembly, led by Speaker Abraham Ngobere.
The defection has sent shockwaves across the state, long considered a PDP stronghold, and marks one of the most significant realignments ahead of the 2027 general elections.
Thousands of jubilant supporters thronged the venue and major streets of Yenagoa, waving party flags, singing, and drumming in celebration of Diri’s entry into the APC.
Political observers say the development could reshape Bayelsa’s political landscape and further deepen the ongoing wave of defections rocking the PDP nationwide.
Credit: Daily Post except headline
