Bayelsa governor speaks on political loyalty, party switch
Bayelsa State Governor, Douye Diri, has stated that he will not force his deputy, Lawrence Ewhrudjakpo, to defect to the All Progressives Congress (APC) following recent political developments in the state.
The governor made the statement while addressing journalists in Yenagoa on Monday, amid growing rumours that his deputy was being pressured to align politically with him after reports surfaced that some key Bayelsa politicians were considering crossing over to the ruling APC.
Diri, who was recently re-elected under the platform of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), described his deputy as a “trusted ally and brother,” but maintained that political decisions should remain a matter of personal conviction, not compulsion.
Politics must remain a matter of choice – Diri
Speaking at the Government House, Diri emphasized that loyalty in politics should not be based on coercion but on shared values and mutual respect.
“In politics, we must allow people to make their choices freely,” the governor said. “My deputy is a loyal member of the PDP and a man of integrity. However, if at any time he decides otherwise, that would be his personal decision. I will not compel anyone — not even my deputy — to take a political path they do not believe in.”
He further noted that governance in Bayelsa remains the priority of his administration and that political affiliations should not affect the delivery of good governance to the people.
“Our focus is on serving the people of Bayelsa, not on political alignments or party struggles. What matters to me is ensuring that our citizens see the dividends of democracy in real terms,” Diri added.
PDP dismisses defection rumours
Meanwhile, the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Bayelsa State has dismissed the speculation about internal divisions within its ranks, describing it as the handiwork of “political jobbers” trying to destabilize the party.
In a statement by the state party secretary, Dr. Godspower Keku, the PDP reaffirmed that both Governor Diri and his deputy remain committed members of the party.
“The PDP remains united in Bayelsa. There is no crisis or defection plan as being circulated. Governor Diri and his deputy have continued to show exemplary leadership and are focused on consolidating the gains of the Prosperity Administration,” the statement read.
Dr. Keku added that the PDP’s strong grassroots support in Bayelsa makes it the party to beat in any election, stressing that the opposition’s attempt to create confusion “will fall flat.”
APC welcomes possible defectors, says party open to all
In reaction, the All Progressives Congress (APC) in the state said it would welcome any political figure willing to join its fold.
APC spokesman in Bayelsa, Mr. Doifie Buokoribo, said the party operates an open-door policy and remains committed to expanding its influence across the Niger Delta.
“The APC in Bayelsa is a growing political movement, and we are open to all who share our vision for development and progress,” Buokoribo said. “Anyone who wishes to join us will be welcomed without discrimination.”
Analysts weigh in on political developments
Political observers in the state have described Governor Diri’s remarks as an indication of maturity and democratic tolerance, especially at a time when political realignments are becoming common in Nigeria’s evolving political landscape.
A political analyst, Dr. Pere Ayibatonye, said: “What Governor Diri has done is commendable. It shows that he respects political freedom and understands that governance should not be reduced to party politics alone. This could strengthen internal democracy within the PDP.”
As Bayelsa continues to navigate its political dynamics, Diri reiterated his administration’s focus on peace, unity, and economic growth, urging citizens to look beyond political distractions.
“Our mandate is to work for Bayelsans — all Bayelsans — regardless of political affiliation,” he said. “That is the only way we can truly build a prosperous state.”
