Why I joined APC — Bayelsa Gov Diri

By Jude Opara

Bayelsa State Governor, Douye Diri, has explained that President Bola Tinubu leadership acumen endeared him to join the All Progressives Congress (APC).
Peoples Daily reports that the Governor has officially defected from the Peoples Democratic Party, (PDP), to the APC, marking a significant realignment in the state’s political landscape.
Diri, who announced his resignation from the PDP on October 15, 2025, also said his decision to join the ruling APC was driven by his desire to serve Bayelsans better.
According to him, his defection followed extensive consultations and reflected the realities within the PDP, which he described as being in deep crisis.
“Nearly six years ago, by the will of Bayelsans and divine providence, I became governor on the PDP platform,” Mr Diri said.
“But over time, the unity and common purpose that once sustained the party eroded. Despite our efforts to rebuild, the internal dynamics made reform impossible.”
He added that joining the APC was a strategic decision taken in the best interest of Bayelsa State, assuring that he would work closely with the national leadership to promote unity and drive development.
“This decision is for the accelerated progress of our people,” he said. “We are now part of the APC family and will work collaboratively to strengthen it for the tasks ahead.”
The governor was formally received into the APC at a grand ceremony held at the Samson Siasia Sports Complex, Yenagoa, attended by top party figures, including the APC National Chairman, Prof. Nentawe Yilwatda, Vice President Kashim Shettima, Senate President Godswill Akpabio, and governors led by Hope Uzodimma of Imo State.
Representing President Tinubu at the event, Mr Shettima commended Mr Diri for his “bold and progressive” choice, describing his defection as a “homecoming” for a leader committed to national unity and development.
“Governor Diri, this is not a ceremony of convenience but a celebration of conviction,” Mr Shettima said.
“You have chosen the harder right over the easier wrong. Bayelsa has chosen the light of integration over the shadows of isolation. The APC is proud of you.”
Yilwatda also lauded the governor’s move, describing it as a “bold and forward-looking decision” that would further strengthen the party’s base in the South-South region.