Governor Douye Diri of Bayelsa State is reportedly preparing to defect from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) to the All Progressives Congress (APC).
According to a reports, a source close to the governor revealed that the defection is expected to take place on October 14.
Insiders say Diri has kept his plans under wraps due to internal rifts within the Bayelsa APC, especially tensions involving the faction loyal to former Minister of Petroleum Resources, Timipre Sylva.
Findings suggest that the governor’s decision stems from the lingering crisis within the PDP, which has made the party less appealing to him and several of his allies ahead of the 2027 elections.
Diri was said to have consulted widely with key Bayelsa elders before reaching his decision. Out of respect, he reportedly informed former President Goodluck Jonathan of his intention to leave the PDP.
It was also gathered that most members of the Bayelsa State House of Assembly have pledged their support for his move.
A top lawmaker close to the governor confirmed the planned defection, saying, “There is no going back on the governor’s move to the APC. We’ve gone beyond consultations.
“The governor will be leaving with members of the House of Assembly, though not all. Some members of the National Assembly will also join, including Senator Konbowei Benson. The defection may happen next week.”
The article was originally published on Politics Nigeria.
