02
Nov
Nov
GOVERNOR DIRI SAYS JOINING APC IS IN BAYELSA’S INTEREST
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CapitalTimesNews / 1 month
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- 2 min read
Bayelsa State Governor Senator Douye Diri has stated that his decision to defect from the Peoples Democratic Party to the All Progressives Congress was made in the best interest of the state. He made this declaration during the 14th Bayelsa Thanksgiving Day held at the Ecumenical Centre in Igbogene, Yenagoa, on Sunday, ahead of his formal reception into the APC on Monday, November 3. In a statement, Chief Press Secretary Daniel Alabrah reported that Governor Diri explained his resignation from the PDP on October 15, 2025, was a necessary move for Bayelsa’s development. Diri emphasized that someone had to take the decision, and he did so on behalf of the people, noting that while some might not understand now, his altruistic reasons would become clear with time. He said, “Somebody had to take the decision and I took it on behalf of the state. I took it in the best interest of the state. Some of you might not understand now but later it will be clear to all.” Daniel Alabrah also highlighted the governor’s focus on unity and development, with Diri stressing that politics should be for progress and not for bringing people down. The event saw gatherings of various political leaders, with Governor Diri expressing delight over the unity displayed. He cited the completion of uncompleted projects and the introduction of new ones, along with current peace and security, as reasons to thank God. Daniel Alabrah further noted that Delta State Governor Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori, represented by his Senior Policy Adviser Rt. Hon. Funkekeme Solomon, commended Bayelsa’s unity and urged support for Diri’s administration. The Minister of State for Petroleum (Oil), Senator Heineken Lokpobiri, described Diri as a unifier and praised his timely political move, emphasizing that the state cannot afford to be in opposition during key developmental decisions at the federal level. Managing Director of the Niger Delta Development Commission, Dr. Samuel Ogbuku, called Diri a godsend for his developmental strides. Other dignitaries, including Bishop Mike Okonkwo in his sermon, reinforced the importance of thanksgiving and unity. The well-attended event included wives of the governor, the deputy governor, federal and state lawmakers, traditional rulers, and gospel artiste Asu Ekiye.
