Bayelsa State Governor, Douye Diri, has revealed that his decision to join the All Progressives Congress (APC) was largely influenced by President Bola Tinubu’s leadership qualities and governance style.
Speaking during a reception held in his honour in Yenagoa, Diri said his defection from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) was not about personal gain but about aligning with a leader whose vision and pragmatism resonate with his own belief in development and national unity.
“President Tinubu’s leadership acumen drew me to the APC,” Diri declared. “He has demonstrated an uncommon capacity to build bridges, unite diverse interests, and prioritize the progress of our nation above politics.”
The governor added that Bayelsa’s future lies in collaboration with the federal government, noting that political alignment would enable the state to benefit more from federal projects and investment opportunities.
“I am convinced that this partnership will accelerate development in Bayelsa and open doors for our people,” he said. “It’s time to put politics aside and focus on governance.”
Welcoming him into the party, Vice President Kashim Shettima and Senate President Godswill Akpabio commended Diri’s decision, describing it as a move of courage and statesmanship that reflects the growing trust in Tinubu’s leadership.
Political analysts have interpreted Diri’s defection as a major boost for the APC in the South-South, a region long dominated by the opposition. They say the governor’s move could reshape the region’s political dynamics ahead of future elections.
