Bayelsa PDP lawmakers endorse Diri’s planned defection to APC

Bayelsa PDP lawmakers endorse Diri’s planned defection to APC

At least 19 out of 24 lawmakers in the Bayelsa State House of Assembly, most of them from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), have reportedly endorsed Governor Douye Diri’s planned defection to the All Progressives Congress (APC).

The move follows a series of private consultations initiated by Speaker Abraham Ngobere, acting on Governor Diri’s directive after a reportedly unproductive meeting with Bayelsa’s National Assembly caucus.

Sources said several legislators met discreetly at the Speaker’s residence where they agreed to support the defection.

A lawmaker, who pleaded anonymity, confirmed the development, saying: “It is no longer a secret that we are leaving PDP.”

Despite the majority’s support, three PDP lawmakers, two from Sagbama and one from Kolokuma/Opokuma  have declined to endorse the switch. They argued that the timing is wrong and the decision lacks strategic foresight.

Hon. Fred Agbedi, a federal lawmaker from Sagbama/Ekeremor, also expressed strong reservations. He warned that the defection might empower Senator Heineken Lokpobiri, the APC’s top figure in Bayelsa, and weaken the PDP’s local influence.

While officials have publicly denied the existence of any endorsement meeting, sources maintained that informal consultations have continued, and Governor Diri’s team is confident the defection plan will proceed.

It was gathered that Diri’s possible defection could shift the balance of power in Bayelsa and influence future realignments across the Niger Delta, especially as the 2027 elections approach.

Stakeholders in the state are split. Some believe aligning with the ruling APC could attract more federal attention and resources, while others view it as a betrayal of voter’s trust and party loyalty.