YOU ARE READING: Gov. Diri, Others Formally Join APC in Bayelsa — Shettima, Akpabio Hail Him as a Unifier and Working Governor

 

📰 YOU ARE READING: Gov. Diri, Others Formally Join APC in Bayelsa — Shettima, Akpabio Hail Him as a Unifier and Working Governor

By Dr. Odimientimi Agbedeyi

In what many political analysts have described as one of the most dramatic realignments in recent Bayelsa political history, the Governor of Bayelsa State, Senator Douye Diri, has officially defected to the All Progressives Congress (APC). The defection was formally sealed in a high-profile ceremony held in Yenagoa, the state capital, and attended by some of the biggest names in Nigerian politics.

The event was not only symbolic but historic, marking a clear turning point in the political dynamics of the oil-rich state. Governor Diri, known for his calm disposition and consensus-building leadership style, was received into the APC fold by Vice President Kashim Shettima, Senate President Godswill Akpabio, and the APC National Chairman, Prof. Nentawe Yilwatda, amidst cheers from a mammoth crowd of supporters.

A Grand Political Gathering in Yenagoa

The ceremony drew thousands of supporters from all eight local government areas of Bayelsa State, who thronged the venue waving APC flags and chanting solidarity songs. The atmosphere was electric as Diri formally renounced his membership of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) — a party under which he had served since his emergence as governor.

Accompanying Governor Diri in this bold political move were key figures of his administration, including the Speaker of the State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Abraham Ingobere, and several lawmakers who publicly declared for the APC during the event.

Also defecting were Senator Konbowei Friday Benson and Senator Benson Agadaga, who had earlier joined the APC last week.

Shettima and Akpabio Praise Diri’s Leadership

In his address, Vice President Kashim Shettima described Governor Diri as a unifier and working governor who has placed the interest of Bayelsa people above partisan politics.

“Governor Diri has shown the kind of maturity and leadership that transcends political boundaries. He is not just a politician; he is a statesman,” Shettima said.

Senate President Godswill Akpabio, in his remarks, lauded Diri for what he called “a decision of wisdom and courage,” noting that his entry into the APC would bring renewed strength and balance to the party in the South-South region.

“Douye Diri has proven that true leadership is not about party colors but about service to the people,” Akpabio stated, calling him a bridge-builder with a heart for development.

Governors and National Leaders Grace the Event

The ceremony was graced by a star-studded lineup of governors across party lines, further underlining the significance of the defection. Among them were:

  • Governor Hope Uzodinma (Imo)

  • Governor Dapo Abiodun (Ogun)

  • Governor Umo Eno (Akwa Ibom)

  • Governor Sheriff Oborevwori (Delta)

  • Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa (Ondo)

  • Governor Peter Mbah (Enugu)

  • Governor Ahmed Usman Ododo (Kogi)

  • Governor Monday Okpebholo (Edo)

Their presence, according to political watchers, symbolized a growing sense of unity and collaboration among Nigerian governors across the partisan divide.

Diri’s Speech: A Call for Unity and Development

In his acceptance speech, Governor Diri said his decision to join the APC was not personal but a strategic move in the best interest of Bayelsa State and its people.

“This is not about Douye Diri. It is about Bayelsa. It is about peace, unity, and development. I believe in working together to bring progress to our people,” he declared.

He also pledged to ensure inclusivity and stability within the APC in Bayelsa State, promising to “lead with humility and ensure that no one is left behind.”

APC Leadership Welcomes Him

Presenting the APC flag to Governor Diri, APC National Chairman, Prof. Nentawe Yilwatda, described the governor’s entry as a major victory for the party and the people.

“We are not just welcoming a new member; we are receiving a leader who has shown capacity, integrity, and patriotism. With Governor Diri in our fold, the APC is stronger than ever in Bayelsa,” Yilwatda said.

Other dignitaries present included Senator Heineken Lokpobiri (Minister of State for Petroleum – Oil), Dr. Samuel Ogbuku (MD/CEO, NDDC), and Prince Ebitimi Amgbare (MD, NDBDA), among other top Bayelsa APC chieftains.

Political Implications

Analysts say Diri’s defection could reshape Bayelsa’s political future, possibly positioning the state for deeper alignment with the ruling party at the federal level. It also underscores the fluid nature of Nigerian politics, where interests often transcend party loyalty.

For many, the move is seen as a pragmatic step — one that could attract more federal presence, investment, and infrastructural development to the state.

Conclusion

Governor Diri’s defection to the APC is not just a political story — it’s a statement of strategy, maturity, and shifting tides in Nigeria’s democratic journey. Whether for unity, alignment, or ambition, one thing is clear: Bayelsa politics will never remain the same again.

✍️ Written by: Dr. Odimientimi Agbedeyi
For: Global Egberi Media International
🌐 https://globalegberi.blogspot.com
📧 globalegberimedia@gmail.com | 📞 +234 813 490 2214

Source: Sahara Reporters

Tags: #DouyeDiri #BayelsaPolitics #APC #Defection #NigeriaPolitics #DrOdimientimiAgbedeyi

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