The Governor of Bayelsa State, Senator Douye Diri, has explained that his decision to leave the Peoples Democratic Party for the All Progressives Congress was taken in the overall interest of the state.
Speaking during the 14th Bayelsa Thanksgiving Day at the Ecumenical Centre in Igbogene, Yenagoa, the governor said it became necessary for someone to take the bold step, adding that he made the choice for the sake of Bayelsa and its people. It was the first time he publicly addressed the issue since his resignation from the PDP on October 15, 2025.
Governor Diri noted that while some might not immediately understand his move, time would reveal that it was a selfless decision rooted in his commitment to the state’s progress. He expressed joy at seeing political figures from different backgrounds come together at the thanksgiving, describing their unity as a symbol of hope and a vital ingredient for Bayelsa’s continued growth.
According to him, politics should be a tool for development, not division, and his administration remains focused on promoting peace, unity, and progress. He highlighted the state’s current atmosphere of peace and security as proof that Bayelsa is on the right path, urging citizens to always cultivate gratitude to God.
“Someone had to make this decision, and I did it for the good of our state,” he said. “When we came into office, we focused on completing projects left unfinished and started new ones. That alone is enough reason to thank God. The peace and stability we now enjoy are also reasons to be thankful. Politics should not be about bringing others down but about building together. This gathering shows the strength of our unity.”
Representing the Delta State Governor, Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori, Senior Policy Adviser Rt. Hon. Funkekeme Solomon commended the unity of Bayelsans, describing it as the foundation of their progress. He urged continued support for the Diri administration, noting that thanksgiving as a culture attracts divine favor.
The Minister of State for Petroleum (Oil), Senator Heineken Lokpobiri, who attended the thanksgiving for the first time, praised Governor Diri for his unifying spirit. He described the governor’s political move as timely, saying Bayelsa could no longer afford to remain in opposition while key national decisions were being taken.
Also speaking, the Managing Director of the Niger Delta Development Commission, Dr. Samuel Ogbuku, called Diri a blessing to Bayelsa, citing his achievements in infrastructure and governance. He prayed for divine wisdom to guide the governor in leading the state toward greater success.
Delivering the sermon, Bishop Mike Okonkwo of The Redeemed Evangelical Mission spoke on the importance of gratitude, reminding the congregation that God never abandons His people in times of need. He assured Bayelsans that as long as they kept their faith in God, victory and blessings would always follow.
Several dignitaries, including Senator Konbowei Benson, the Head of Service of the Federation, Dame Didi Walson-Jack, and the Chairman of the Bayelsa Elders Council, Rear Admiral Gboribiogha John-Jonah (rtd), praised Governor Diri’s leadership and called for continued unity across the state.
The well-attended event drew prominent figures from across Nigeria, including the governor’s wife, Dr. Gloria Diri, Justice Patience Ama-Diri, Deputy Governor Senator Lawrence Ewhrudjakpo, the wife of the Speaker of the House of Representatives, Hajia Fatima Tajudeen-Abbas, and several federal and state lawmakers.
Also present were top government officials, traditional rulers, captains of industry, and respected clerics such as Apostle David Zilly-Aggrey, all joining hands in a collective expression of gratitude and hope for a stronger, more united Bayelsa.
