Bayelsa State Governor, Senator Douye Diri, has defended his decision to leave the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and join the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC), describing it as a move in the state’s best interest.
Speaking on Sunday during the 14th Bayelsa Thanksgiving Day at the Ecumenical Centre in Igbogene, Yenagoa, Diri said someone had to take the bold step for Bayelsa, and he did so on behalf of its citizens.
This marked his first public comments on the matter since resigning from the PDP on October 15, 2025.
Diri acknowledged that some people might not immediately understand his decision, but he insisted that with time, the rationale would become clear.
He emphasized that politics should focus on development and unity rather than conflict, and stressed the importance of the ongoing peace, security, and progress in Bayelsa.
“We prioritized completing uncompleted projects and initiated new ones, which is reason enough to thank God. The peace and security we are enjoying are further reasons for gratitude. Politics should be about development, not harming your fellow citizen,” Diri said.
Representing Delta State Governor Sheriff Oborevwori, Senior Policy Adviser Funkekeme Solomon highlighted that Bayelsa’s growth depends on unity, urging residents to continue supporting the Diri administration.
Minister of State for Petroleum, Senator Heineken Lokpobiri, described Diri as a unifier and said his move to APC was timely, noting that Bayelsa could no longer afford to remain in opposition as key national developmental decisions are being made.
Lokpobiri also issued a veiled warning against disloyalty to the governor, hinting at tensions with the Deputy Governor, who chose to stay with the PDP.
Niger Delta Development Commission Managing Director Dr. Samuel Ogbuku praised Diri’s administration, calling him a “godsend” due to the visible developmental strides in the state.
