Senator Benson Konbowei, who represents Bayelsa Central Senatorial District, has officially defected from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) to the All Progressives Congress (APC), citing deepening internal crises within his former party.
His defection was formally announced on Thursday during plenary, as Senate President Godswill Akpabio read Konbowei’s letter on the Senate floor.
In the letter, Senator Konbowei said his decision to leave the PDP followed “unpleasant circumstances” and persistent factional disputes at the national level that have weakened the party’s cohesion and electoral strength.
“I have been a committed member of the PDP since 1998, and it is from this party that I was elected to the 10th Senate.
”However, after due consultation with my family, political associates, and leaders across Bayelsa and the country, I have decided to resign my membership,” he stated.
The senator expressed disappointment in the party’s current leadership, which he described as lacking direction and focus.
“The PDP, once a symbol of democratic ideals, has unfortunately fallen into the hands of individuals driven by personal ambition.
”The party is now characterised by endless power struggles and irreconcilable conflicts,” he said.
According to him, the persistent internal wrangling has left the PDP in “total disarray,” making it incapable of performing as a viable opposition or contesting effectively in future elections.
“No serious-minded politician will sit idle while the party disintegrates.
”With the 2027 elections approaching, I cannot afford to stay in a structure that is not ready to win even a councillorship seat,” he added.
Senator Konbowei declared his full allegiance to the APC, pledging to support its ideals and work towards its continued success.
“I hereby resign from the PDP and formally declare my loyalty and support for the All Progressives Congress,” he stated.
The defection adds to the growing number of political realignments ahead of the 2027 general elections, especially in oil-rich Bayelsa State, where political tensions are beginning to rise.
