Governor Diri Says Joining APC is in Bayelsa’s Interest; Oborevwori Credits State’s Progress to Unity

Yenagoa, Bayelsa State — Ahead of his formal reception into the All Progressives Congress (APC) on Monday, November 3, Governor Douye Diri has said his decision to leave the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) was made in the best interest of Bayelsa State.

Speaking on Sunday during the 14th Bayelsa Thanksgiving Day at the Ecumenical Centre in Igbogene, Yenagoa, the governor described his move as a necessary step for the development of the state. This marked his first public statement since resigning from the PDP on October 15, 2025.

“Somebody had to take the decision, and I took it on behalf of the state. Some of you might not understand now, but later it will be clear to all,” Diri said.

The governor emphasized the importance of unity and development over political rivalry, noting that the administration’s achievements—including the completion of uncompleted projects, initiation of new ones, and maintenance of peace and security—were reasons for gratitude.

“Politics is for development and not to kill your brother. The gathering here is a testimony of the unity in the state,” he added.

Support From Leaders and Guests

Representing Delta State Governor Sheriff Oborevwori, Senior Policy Adviser Rt. Hon. Funkekeme Solomon commended Bayelsa’s progress, saying the state’s strength lies in the unity of its people and urging continued support for the Diri administration.

Minister of State for Petroleum, Senator Heineken Lokpobiri, described Diri as a unifier and said his political move to join the ruling party was timely, given the state’s need to be aligned with central developmental decisions.

The Managing Director of the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC), Dr. Samuel Ogbuku, praised the governor for his visible developmental strides, calling him “a godsend to the state,” and prayed for wisdom to guide his leadership.

Delivering the sermon titled “Reasons Why We Should Thank God,” Bishop Mike Okonkwo, General Overseer of The Redeemed Evangelical Mission (TREM), encouraged Bayelsans to remain grateful to God, assuring them that victory and blessings would follow a life rooted in faith.

High-Profile Attendance

The thanksgiving event drew a wide range of dignitaries, including:

• Governor Diri’s wife, Dr. Gloria Diri, and Justice Patience Ama-Diri
• Deputy Governor, Senator Lawrence Ewhrudjakpo
• Senators Benson Agadaga (Bayelsa East) and Sunday Katung (Kaduna South)
• Speaker of the Bayelsa State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Abraham Ingobere
• Former governors and top political figures, traditional rulers, and captains of industry

Other notable attendees included Rear Admiral Gboribiogha John-Jonah (rtd), Prof. Benjamin Okaba, Chief David Lyon, and several ministers of God and gospel artistes, including Asu Ekiye, who ministered at the event.

Governor Diri concluded by urging Bayelsans to embrace a culture of thanksgiving and to remain united for continued peace and development in the state.

Daniel Alabrah
Chief Press Secretary
Sunday, November 2, 2025