The Governor of Bayelsa State, Douye Diri, has formally resigned from the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) along with 19 out of 23 members of the Bayelsa State House of Assembly, including the Speaker, Abraham Ngobere.
Governor Diri made the announcement on Wednesday, October 15, 2025, stating that his decision followed “serious discussions” with key political allies and members of the state assembly.
“After deep consultations with members of my team and associates, I have decided to resign from the People’s Democratic Party. This is not a decision taken lightly,” Diri said.
Although he cited “very obvious reasons” for his departure, he did not provide specific details or officially confirm which political party he would be joining. However, sources close to the governor suggest that Diri is set to defect to the All Progressives Congress (APC).
Another Major Blow to PDP
Governor Diri’s resignation comes barely 24 hours after Enugu State Governor Peter Mbah also announced his defection to the APC.
This development marks another significant setback for the PDP, which now controls only eight states across the country.
The latest defection adds to a growing wave of political realignments that have seen three PDP governors switch allegiance to the ruling APC within 2025 alone, further weakening the opposition party’s grip in key states.
Assembly Speaker Reacts
Speaker of the Bayelsa State House of Assembly, Abraham Ngobere, confirmed the governor’s resignation and described it as a “bold and strategic move.”
“As a leader, Governor Diri has the right and the courage to make decisions in the best interest of his political future. He has shown the capacity to carry along strong candidates and followers who have faith in his vision,” Ngobere said.
The speaker added that the assembly respects Diri’s choice and acknowledged the influence his departure could have on the political structure within the state.
Analysts Weigh In
Political analysts believe Diri’s exit could strengthen the APC’s foothold in the South-South region, which has traditionally been a PDP stronghold.
With Bayelsa’s strategic oil wealth and political influence, the defection is expected to have far-reaching implications ahead of the 2026 general elections.
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