The Bayelsa State Chapter of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has officially accepted the resignation of Governor Douye Diri, who, along with members of his cabinet and the State House of Assembly, announced his exit from the party on Wednesday.
In a statement issued on Thursday, the PDP’s State Publicity Secretary, Ebiye Ogoli, confirmed that the decision to accept the governor’s resignation was reached during an emergency leadership meeting held in Yenagoa.
Ogoli disclosed that Diri’s resignation letter, addressed to the Kolga Ward 6 Chairman and copied to the State Working Committee, had been duly received and acknowledged.
“The party leadership expresses sincere gratitude for Governor Diri’s exemplary leadership and the cordial relationship he maintained with stakeholders and members during his time in the PDP,” Ogoli stated.
He emphasized that despite the governor’s exit, the PDP remains united, with all its structures in Bayelsa State fully intact.
“While recognising the governor’s decision, the PDP reaffirms its commitment to the party’s goals and vision. The leadership remains solid and wishes Governor Diri success in his future endeavours,” the statement added.
Attendees at the meeting included State Chairman Solomon Agwana, Deputy Chairman Ben Odon, Secretary Gesiye Isowo, and other top officials.
APC Welcomes Diri’s Exit, Calls It ‘A Bold Step’
Meanwhile, Festus Sunday, a prominent chieftain of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Bayelsa, has applauded Governor Diri’s decision to leave what he described as a “sinking ship.”
Speaking to Hobnob News in Yenagoa, Sunday commended the governor’s courage, describing the move as both strategic and beneficial to the state’s long-term development.
“Governor Diri’s decision is a bold and forward-looking step. Coming to the APC will be a homecoming for him and his team. We are ready to receive them with open arms,” he said.
The APC stalwart praised Diri as a peaceful and pragmatic leader, noting that his possible alignment with the ruling party at the federal level could enhance Bayelsa’s development drive and political relevance.
“Diri’s leadership qualities are evident, and his association with the APC will strengthen the state’s ties with the federal government, furthering the Prosperity Administration’s vision,” Sunday added.
He also urged Bayelsans to respect the governor’s constitutional right to freedom of association, emphasizing that democracy thrives on choice and diversity of opinion.
“Those who prefer to remain in the PDP to play opposition politics have the right to do so. But the collective interest of Bayelsa must come before personal ambition,” he stated.
Sunday concluded by calling on citizens to continue supporting Governor Diri in his efforts to maintain peace and drive sustainable development across the state.
Summary
Governor Diri’s resignation from the PDP marks a significant political shift in Bayelsa, with implications for both state and federal alignments. While the PDP has formally accepted his decision, APC leaders are already extending an open invitation — signaling what could be a major realignment in Bayelsa’s political landscape.
