Massive Political Realignment as Bayelsa Governor Joins APC
In a significant political development that could reshape Nigeria's electoral landscape, pressure group PBAT Door to Door has committed to delivering over 15 million votes for President Bola Tinubu in the 2027 presidential election. This bold declaration came during a solidarity rally in Yenagoa celebrating Governor Douye Diri's formal defection to the All Progressive Congress (APC).
The national coordinator of PBAT Door to Door, Sunday Asuku, made the pledge before journalists and thousands of supporters, emphasizing that the movement aims to ensure President Tinubu's re-election for a second term. The event, which took place on November 8, 2025, marked Governor Diri's official reception into the APC following his defection the previous Monday.
Grassroots Mobilization for 2027 Elections
The solidarity rally attracted over 5,000 members of the PBAT Door to Door Movement from various communities across all eight local government areas of Bayelsa State. Asuku praised President Tinubu's leadership style, noting that it has fostered national unity and strengthened democratic institutions.
"President Tinubu believes in the unity of Nigeria and has demonstrated that in his non-partisan approach to governance," Asuku stated. He highlighted the President's creation of an enabling political environment that encourages inclusiveness and confidence among political leaders across party lines.
The group's national coordinator further emphasized that Tinubu's bold economic reforms, sectoral performance, and improved governance demonstrate his commitment to enhancing the lives of Nigerians. According to Asuku, these achievements have restored public faith in government's capacity to deliver on its promises.
Strategic Political Alignment for Bayelsa's Development
Another prominent leader of the group, Francis Kolokolo, described Governor Diri's decision to join the APC as "bold, courageous, and patriotic." He stated that this move reflects a growing consensus among Bayelsans who want the state fully integrated into the national political mainstream.
Kolokolo argued that by aligning Bayelsa with the federal government, Governor Diri has demonstrated exceptional statesmanship and prioritized his people's development and welfare above partisan politics. This political realignment is expected to enhance collaboration between the state and federal government, particularly in infrastructure development.
"This political alignment will position Bayelsa more strategically on the table of equal rights and open doors to greater socio-economic advancement," Kolokolo explained. "With improved synergy between state and federal authorities, Bayelsa stands to benefit from increased federal presence and intervention projects that will uplift local communities and stimulate economic growth."
The group also acknowledged Chief Government Ekpemupolo as the visionary behind PBAT Door to Door Movement, praising his foresight and tireless efforts in using personal resources to promote development and unity across the Niger Delta region.
With the current political shifts and the government's reform-driven agenda, the group expressed strong optimism that the APC is well-positioned to secure overwhelming support in the 2027 general elections. They reaffirmed their commitment to sustaining grassroots mobilization efforts to embed the party's ideals of progress, unity, and prosperity deeply within communities.
