PDP Collapses in South-South as Bayelsa Governor Diri Reportedly Considers Defection to APC Political tension is intensifying in Bayelsa State as strong indications emerge that Governor Douye Diri may be on the verge of dumping the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) for the All Progressives Congress (APC).
If confirmed, this move would deal a heavy blow to the PDP’s presence in the South-South region, following the recent defections of Governors Sheriff Oborevwori of Delta and Umo Eno of Akwa Ibom to the ruling party.
Sources close to the Bayelsa Government House suggest that Governor Diri has entered advanced discussions with top officials in the Presidency and has begun consultations with influential political stakeholders across the state. A source familiar with the discussions disclosed that the governor has already briefed several National Assembly members from Bayelsa on his intentions.
“Governor Diri has spoken to members of the National Assembly about his intention to leave the PDP. While some support the move, others such as Mitema Obordor, Fred Agbedi, and Maria Ebikake have expressed serious concerns,” the source said. Oboku Oforji, who represents the Yenagoa Federal Constituency, is reportedly awaiting guidance from former governor and current Bayelsa West Senator, Henry Seriake Dickson. Senator Dickson, although not supportive of Diri’s possible defection, is said to have chosen to remain neutral.
Senators Benson Agadaga (Bayelsa East) and Konbowei Benson (Bayelsa Central) are believed to be non-committal at this stage but may align with the governor if the defection becomes official. Adding to the speculation, Governor Diri has reportedly tasked the Speaker of the Bayelsa State House of Assembly, Abraham Ngobere, with gauging the mood of state lawmakers regarding the proposed switch.
A senior member of the Assembly confirmed that informal consultations are already underway. “The chances of the governor defecting are very high,” the lawmaker stated. “Many of us are ready to follow him. With the PDP weakened in the South-South and constant threats of legal challenges to our mandates, the APC appears to be a more secure political platform.” The development has drawn reactions from key political figures.
Former Minister of Petroleum and ex-governor of the state, Chief Timipre Sylva, expressed optimism about the potential defection. “If Governor Diri is coming to the APC, I’ll be happy to receive him,” Sylva said in a telephone interview. “When I introduced APC in Bayelsa, many dismissed it. Now, it is gaining real ground, and his entry would be a major boost.” However, in an official reaction, Governor Diri’s Chief Press Secretary, Mr. Daniel Alabrah, said he was unaware of any plan by the governor to defect. “I’m not aware of any discussions the governor has had with anyone about defecting,” Alabrah stated.
“Governor Diri is a transparent leader. If he decides to switch parties, he will inform the public clearly. As of now, there is no confirmation.” Advertisements As Bayelsa remains the last PDP stronghold in the South-South, the unfolding situation could mark a significant political realignment in the region. Political watchers now wait to see whether Diri will make the leap — a move that may finally collapse the PDP’s dominance in the oil-rich zone.
Source: Politicsng