Governor Douye Diri of Bayelsa State has publicly addressed the political situation with his deputy, Senator Lawrence Ewhrudjakpo, who has refused to join him in defecting to the All Progressives Congress.
Governor's Stance on Political Differences
During the weekly state executive council meeting at Government House in Yenagoa, Governor Diri made it clear that he will not compel his deputy to follow him to the APC. The governor emphasized his preference for engagement over confrontation, acknowledging that operating from different political platforms could present challenges.
Governor Diri resigned from the Peoples Democratic Party on October 15 and formally joined the ruling APC on November 3, 2025. He described his defection as a strategic decision aimed at national alignment and creating developmental opportunities for Bayelsa State.
Resolution of Impeachment Concerns
In a significant development, Governor Diri revealed that his deputy has withdrawn a case filed at the Federal High Court in Abuja concerning an alleged impeachment plot. The governor attributed this positive outcome to personal discussions between them, highlighting dialogue as the most effective tool for resolving political disagreements.
"Let me address an issue that had been a subject of speculation in the media," Diri stated. "I do not intend to force people to join the APC but rather to appeal to them to see reason with me. I might have the power today but not tomorrow."
Commitment to Peaceful Politics
The governor strongly dismissed rumors about armed men entering the state, labeling such reports as fake news. He reassured residents that Bayelsa remains one of Nigeria's safest states while confirming that security agencies had been appropriately alerted about the circulating rumors.
Addressing potential cracks within his administration, Diri stressed his commitment to appealing to understanding rather than using coercion. "We must not heat up the polity. We are done with violence in Bayelsa State. We are brothers and we are one. Politics should be for the development of the state and not to fight," he emphasized.
Governor Diri also expressed gratitude to President Bola Tinubu and Vice President Kashim Shettima for their support during his defection ceremony, pledging to work toward a better Nigeria and improved living standards for Bayelsa residents.
