YENAGOA, Nigeria — Governor Douye Diri of Bayelsa State has defended his decision to leave the opposition Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) for the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC), saying the move is intended to accelerate development and strengthen the state’s relationship with the federal government.
Diri, who is set to formally join the APC on Monday, November 3, 2025, in Yenagoa alongside members of his cabinet, state lawmakers, two serving senators and other political leaders, made his remarks during the 14th Bayelsa Thanksgiving Day at the Ecumenical Centre in Igbogene.
The defection marks a significant political shift in the oil-rich state, which has historically been a stronghold of the PDP.
It also comes at a time of turbulence within the PDP at national level, where leadership struggles and suspensions have deepened internal divisions.
Addressing worshippers at the thanksgiving service, Diri said his decision was motivated by the need to secure a stronger partnership with the federal government and unlock more opportunities for Bayelsa.
“Somebody had to take the decision, and I took it on behalf of the state. I took it in the best interest of Bayelsa. Some of you might not understand now, but later it will be clear to all,” he said.
The governor acknowledged that the move had sparked debate but emphasised that his priority remained the welfare and progress of the state.
In a statement issued by Dan Alabrah, his chief press secretary, Diri said his administration had prioritised completing inherited projects while initiating new ones aimed at boosting development.
“When we came in as a government, what we did at the beginning was to ensure that most of the uncompleted projects were completed and we introduced new ones,” he said.
“That alone is enough reason to thank God. The peace and security we are enjoying is another reason to thank God.”
Under his leadership, he added, the state had experienced improved stability, which he credited as a key foundation for development.
Diri urged citizens to remain united and view politics as a tool for progress rather than conflict.
“Politics is for development and not to kill your brother. The gathering here is a testimony of the unity in the state,” he said.
The governor’s defection will reshape the political landscape in Bayelsa and bolster the APC’s position in the South-South region, where the ruling party has historically struggled to gain foothold.
Analysts say it may also deepen pressure on the PDP as it grapples with internal divisions and a series of high-profile exits.
The ceremony in Yenagoa is expected to draw national party leaders and senior government officials, underscoring the significance of the move for both Bayelsa and the APC.
