Bayelsa State Governor, Douye Diri, on Monday formally dumped the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) for the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC), ending weeks of speculation and triggering a major political shake-up in the South-South ahead of the 2027 general elections.
The defection, described as one of the most consequential political shifts in Bayelsa since 2019, drew thousands of jubilant supporters who flooded Yenagoa in a carnival-like rally despite an early morning downpour.
At the Samson Siasia Sports Complex, where an overflowing crowd forced security operatives to restrict entry to avoid a stampede, party loyalists in white T-shirts and colourful regalia from all eight local government areas sang victory tunes and waved APC flags as they welcomed Diri into the party.
The governor, who resigned from the PDP two weeks ago, confirmed his defection during the 14th Bayelsa Thanksgiving Day marking the state’s creation anniversary at the Ecumenical Centre, Igbogene, Yenagoa.
“Somebody had to take the decision (to leave the PDP), and I took it on behalf of the state,” Diri declared.
“I took it in the best interest of Bayelsa. Some of you might not understand now, but later it will be clear to all. Politics is for development and not to kill your brother.”
He stressed that Bayelsa’s peace and stability remain priorities under his leadership, insisting that unity was essential for development.
The ceremony attracted heavyweight political figures including Akwa Ibom Governor Umo Eno, Delta Governor Sheriff Oborevwori and former Governor Ifeanyi Okowa, Ondo State Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa, former Edo Governor Adams Oshiomhole, and Minister of Regional Development, Abubakar Momoh.
Diri now becomes the 25th governor under the APC umbrella and the fourth PDP governor to cross over this year, following similar moves by Governors Oborevwori (Delta), Umo Eno (Akwa Ibom), and Peter Mbah (Enugu).
The development effectively shifts political control of the oil-rich South-South region, with four of its five previously PDP-controlled states now under APC influence — a significant boost for President Bola Tinubu’s political consolidation ahead of the next general polls.
Political observers say Diri’s entry into the APC could reshape alliances and power structures in the Niger Delta, where federal backing has historically played a decisive role in electoral outcomes and resource politics.
For now, the governor insists his defection is not about power, but the future of Bayelsa. “Peace and development come first,” he said. “Bayelsa must remain united.”
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