Presidency, Bayelsa APC’s Frenzied Excitement Over Gov. Douye Diri’s Rumoured Defection: A Testimony to His Exceptional Leadership – PYC Reacts

📍 By Prince Agbedeyi Odimientimi Desmond, Reporting for Global Egberi Media International

Bayelsa, Nigeria – June 30, 2025

As speculations swell over the possible defection of Bayelsa State Governor, Senator Douye Diri, from the People's Democratic Party (PDP) to the All Progressives Congress (APC), reactions are beginning to pour in from stakeholders and grassroots mobilizers. One such voice—firm, unwavering, and measured—is that of the Prosperity Youths Coalition (PYC), a leading pro-Diri youth movement in the state.

In an exclusive chat with Global Egberi Media International, the Secretary General of PYC, Barr. Ayebakuro Igbeta PhD, offered a powerful commentary on the matter. With his characteristic clarity and loyalty to the ideals of good governance, Igbeta delved deep into the socio-political implications of the Governor’s rumored move, what it means for Bayelsa politics, and why the APC’s excitement is ironically a testament to Diri’s outstanding performance as Governor.

"We Treat It As Rumour – For Now"

Barr. Igbeta began by acknowledging the widespread nature of the defection rumors, but insisted that until the Governor makes a formal statement or definitive move, the group considers the matter to remain purely speculative.

“Yes, we’ve heard the rumour like everyone else, but let us be clear—it is still a rumour,” he said. “Governor Diri is a meticulous leader. Issues like this are not decided in the dark. If there’s going to be a defection, it won’t happen quietly or without due consultation with key stakeholders.”

Despite the uncertainty surrounding the Governor's political future, the PYC scribe believes what is more revealing is the nature of the response from the APC and its leadership, both in the state and at the federal level.

APC’s Excitement—A Silent Endorsement

Perhaps the most telling development is the visible and vocal excitement within the APC, especially among its Bayelsa chapter and prominent figures like the Minister of Works. The tone of celebration in their camps, as if Diri’s arrival is a done deal, has not gone unnoticed.

“Let us pause and reflect. This is the same Governor the APC claimed was a lightweight, that he wasn't delivering. So what changed?” he queried. “Could it be that deep down, they always recognized his competence but couldn’t admit it until now?”

According to Igbeta, what we’re witnessing is not mere political interest—it’s admiration masked as anticipation. He argues that Diri’s enviable record in office is now making even his fiercest critics scramble to associate with his legacy.

“They want a man with a proven track record of delivery to lead their party—because he has excelled in service and leadership.”

A Vindication of Loyalty

Reflecting on the journey of the Prosperity Youths Coalition, Igbeta noted that the Governor’s rising profile—so much so that the APC now appears to court him—is a vindication of those who have stood with him through thick and thin.

“We’ve been here when it wasn’t popular to support Diri. We didn’t do it for applause or compensation, but because we believed in his vision,” he stated. “Today, that vision has attracted attention, even from the opposition.”

He hailed the supporters and loyalists of the Governor for their commitment, reiterating that even though recognition may not always come immediately, truth and loyalty eventually find their reward.

Decisions Not Made in Isolation

On the question of whether Governor Diri will defect, Igbeta offered a grounded perspective:

“Whatever decision the Governor makes, it will not be in isolation. He has a structure, a following, and allies. If he moves, he won’t move alone—and it will not be at midnight.”

He reminded journalists and commentators alike that the Governor has repeatedly advised that the “time for politics is not now.” During his recent state-wide "Thank You Tour", Diri emphasized his focus on governance and development—not partisan maneuvering.

Barr. Igbeta also issued a word of caution to the media:

“Let us not heat up the polity unnecessarily. The Governor will speak at the right time. Until then, we must not reduce politics to beer parlour gossip.”

Conclusion: Performance Speaks Louder Than Party Colors

This latest development, whether it results in an actual defection or not, underscores a broader political truth: performance transcends party lines. That the APC is eager to embrace a man they once publicly opposed shows that in Nigerian politics, competence and credibility may yet become the most valuable currency.

In the words of Barr. Igbeta, the excitement from the ruling party only reaffirms one thing—Senator Douye Diri has not just governed; he has impressed.

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📌 Reporter: Prince Agbedeyi Odimientimi Desmond
📰 For: Global Egberi Media International
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