Bayelsa State Governor Douye Diri officially joined the All Progressives Congress (APC) on Monday. He called his former party, the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), a “sinking ship” and said he switched parties to promote development.
“The PDP has become a sinking ship. Joining the APC reflects the will of Bayelsans to move forward,” Diri said during the rally in Yenagoa.
Meanwhile, the defection was welcomed by several top APC leaders, including Vice President Kashim Shettima and Senate President Godswill Akpabio. Governors from Ogun, Ondo, Delta, Imo, and Akwa Ibom also attended.
APC Leaders Officially Receive Diri
Prof. Nentawe Yilwatda, APC National Chairman, handed over the party flag to Diri and declared him the new state leader.
“Bayelsa has spoken today. The state now stands with the APC. Welcome, Governor Diri,” Yilwatda said.
He further urged party members to consolidate APC’s presence in the South-South ahead of the 2027 elections.
Ijaw Nation Backs the Move
Diri said his defection reflects the decision of the Ijaw people across several states. Supporters from Delta, Ondo, and Edo joined the rally.
“This is not just about Bayelsa. The Ijaw nation is standing together with the APC,” Diri added.
He emphasized that the move aims to attract development and ensure unity while supporting peace across the region.
Political Implications for the South-South
By joining the APC, Diri helps the party control five out of six South-South states. Rivers State remains shared between APC and PDP. Analysts suggest this shift could influence political strategies in the region.
Conclusion
The APC welcomed Diri and highlighted unity and development as priorities. Observers are watching how this realignment will impact South-South politics in the coming years.
