Yenagoa, the Bayelsa State capital, burst into celebration on Monday as Governor Douye Diri officially joined the All Progressives Congress (APC).
The move ends weeks of speculation over his political future and marks one of the most dramatic realignments in the state’s political history.
Thousands of APC supporters and loyalists of the governor, dressed in white t-shirts and colourful wrappers, flooded the streets from as early as 8 a.m., despite a heavy morning downpour.
The atmosphere was festive — singing, drumming, and dancing echoed through major streets as convoys of dignitaries rolled into the capital.
By mid-morning, the 5,000-capacity Samson Siasia Stadium was filled beyond limit. Security officials were forced to restrict entry to prevent a stampede as more supporters surged toward the venue.
A Political Earthquake in the South-South
Governor Diri, who resigned from the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) two weeks ago, said his decision to join the APC was “a matter of principle, development, and destiny.”
The defection brings to an end his long association with the PDP under which he first emerged governor.
The event drew a star-studded lineup of political heavyweights from across the Niger Delta and beyond. Among those already in Yenagoa were the Governor of Akwa Ibom State, Pastor Umo Eno, his Delta State counterpart, Elder Sheriff Oborevwori, and former Delta governor, Senator Ifeanyi Okowa.
Others included Ondo State Governor Orimisan Aiyedatiwa, former Edo governor Adams Oshiomhole, and the Minister of Niger Delta Development, Engr. Abubakar Momoh.
Political observers say the defection could reshape alliances in the South-South ahead of future elections. But can the APC’s internal structure in Bayelsa absorb the governor’s influence without triggering fresh tensions?
Mr. Diri earlier explained his rationale for leaving the main opposition for the ruling party, saying it was taken purely in the interest of the state.
Speaking at the 14th Bayelsa Thanksgiving Day held at the Ecumenical Centre in Igbogene, Yenagoa, Diri said “someone had to take the decision, and I took it on behalf of the people of Bayelsa.”
It was the first time he publicly addressed the issue of his defection since resigning from the PDP on October 15, 2025.
The governor said he understood that some people might question his move, but time would vindicate him. “Many may not understand now,” he said, “but as time passes, they will see that my reasons are altruistic.”
“Politics should be for development, not to bring people down,” he stated. “Our administration will keep working to unite and develop our state.”
The governor thanked God for the peace and stability the state now enjoys, saying every Bayelsan has a reason to be grateful.
He urged citizens to adopt a culture of thanksgiving as a mark of faith and progress.
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