Governor Douye Diri of Bayelsa, has advised politicians to base party defections on personal conviction rather than pressure or loyalty to individuals, describing political movement as a natural part of democratic practice.
The governor explained that his decision to leave the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) for the All Progressives Congress (APC) was guided by careful reflection, consultations, and spiritual discernment at the time it was taken.
Diri officially resigned from the PDP on October 15, 2025, and was formally welcomed into the APC on November 3, 2025, in Yenagoa by top party leaders, including Vice President Kashim Shettima.
He spoke on Monday night during the January edition of the monthly Praise Night held at Government House, Yenagoa, where he noted that politics is not rigid and that alignments and realignments are inevitable when leaders genuinely seek the development of their people.
According to a statement issued on Tuesday by his Chief Press Secretary, Mr. Daniel Alabrah, the governor said political decisions must always be tied to the broader goal of progress and service delivery.
Diri said he does not take major political steps impulsively, adding that he consults widely, prays, and follows his convictions before acting.
He recounted his political journey across different platforms, noting that he had belonged to the National Solidarity Movement, the PDP, and the Labour Party at different stages of his career.
He explained that political transitions had played a critical role in shaping his path, stressing that remaining in a party without prospects for growth could limit one’s ability to serve.
According to him, returning to the PDP at a crucial time eventually paved the way for his emergence as governor.
The governor urged politicians to avoid blind loyalty, saying each individual’s destiny is unique and should not be tied to another person’s ambition.
He maintained that changing political camps is acceptable, provided it is done with sincerity and a clear sense of purpose.
He further challenged political actors to reflect on the legacy they intend to leave behind, asking whether future generations should inherit unity and development or be burdened with division and hostility driven by personal interests.
Diri assured Bayelsans that his administration remained committed to strengthening development initiatives aimed at overcoming the state’s socio-economic challenges.
On infrastructure, he expressed confidence that the 630-metre Angiama Bridge across the River Nun in Southern Ijaw Local Government Area would be completed in the first quarter of the year.
He also said work was progressing steadily on the Nembe–Brass road project.
While acknowledging that the entire Nembe–Brass road may not be completed within the year, the governor said the first phase would significantly reduce travel time, allowing commuters to connect to Brass by boat in under 20 minutes.
Speaking on power supply, Diri highlighted the acquisition of a 60-megawatt gas turbine for the state, describing it as a pioneering achievement.
He said the government was creating the right conditions to stimulate economic growth through improved electricity supply.
The governor also expressed gratitude to religious leaders, residents of the state, security agencies, and sympathisers from across the country for their support and solidarity during the burial of his late deputy, Senator Lawrence Ewhrudjakpo.
Addressing speculations, Diri reiterated that there was no personal conflict between him and his late deputy following his defection to the APC.
He explained that Ewhrudjakpo had approached the court without prior notice due to fears of impeachment, but later apologised and agreed to withdraw the suit.
He added that no impeachment process could have succeeded without his consent.
In his sermon, the General Overseer of the Royal House of Grace International Church, Apostle David Zilly-Aggrey, urged worshippers to acknowledge God’s love and power through sincere worship.
He commended the state government for sustaining the monthly praise programme and prayed for the Prosperity Government to end its tenure successfully.
