Bayelsa State Governor, Douye Diri, is reportedly set to defect from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) to the All Progressives Congress (APC), with sources indicating the move could be formalised on October 14, 2025.
Investigations suggest that Diri has been planning the defection for several months, but moved discreetly due to internal frictions within the APC in Bayelsa, particularly from factions loyal to former Petroleum Minister Chief Timipre Sylva. The governor’s decision is reportedly motivated by the persistent crisis within the PDP, which has made it increasingly difficult for him and his political allies to pursue their ambitions ahead of the 2027 elections.
Sources revealed that Diri consulted widely with Bayelsa elders before making his decision, and informed former President Goodluck Jonathan as a mark of courtesy. He has reportedly secured the support of the majority of the Bayelsa State House of Assembly, as well as the backing of the eight local government chairmen and members of the State Executive Council.
However, not all political actors are on board. Most National Assembly members from the state have rejected the move, arguing there is no compelling reason to defect. Among those opting to remain in the PDP are Senators Henry Seriake Dickson and Benson Agadaga, and three of the five House of Representatives members, including Fred Agbedi (Sagbama/Ekeremor), Maria Ebikake (Nembe/Brass), and Mietama Obordor (Ogbia).
Despite the opposition, Diri’s associates insist the defection is irreversible. A top lawmaker close to the governor stated: “There is no going back on the governor crossing to the APC. We have passed the stage of consultation. The governor is going with members of the House of Assembly, though not all of us are going. Also, some members of the National Assembly are not going. Senator Konbowei Benson is going with the governor. The defection may be next week.”
While APC leaders in Bayelsa say they are ready to welcome the governor, both the APC state chairman, Dr Dennis Otiotio, and Diri’s Chief Press Secretary, Mr Daniel Alabrah, claimed they were not aware of the defection plan.
The potential exit of Diri has reportedly polarised PDP leadership in the state. Opposition from most National Assembly members signals that some party leaders are determined to stay, even as younger political aides around the governor are reportedly pressuring him to switch parties to reconfigure power in the state.
A top PDP member claimed: “Some of the people who were not anywhere when we fought to bring the governor in 2019 and 2023 are the people he is listening to. They are not popular, and they want to contest the election to take power by force. They believe that by joining the APC, they will use federal might to win the election.”
Sources added that Senator Dickson, who has largely kept his distance from the Diri administration, was not consulted about the defection plan, as Diri anticipated opposition. Those against the move may now attempt to position Dickson as the leading figure of the opposition should Bayelsa transition to an APC-led state.
Leave a Comment