Over 500 PDP members from Ofoni communities in Bayelsa State defect to APC, with party leaders welcoming the move and expressing confidence ahead of future elections
Major Political Shift in Bayelsa as Over 500 PDP Members Join APC
A major political shift has occurred in Bayelsa State as more than 500 members of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) have defected to the All Progressives Congress (APC).
The defectors, who are kinsmen of the late Deputy Governor Lawrence Ewhrudjakpo, were formally received into the APC during a political gathering in the state.
Governor Douye Diri, represented by the Deputy Governor Dr. Peter Akpe, welcomed the new members into the ruling party, assuring them that the APC in Bayelsa operates an inclusive structure with no discrimination.
Speaking during the reception ceremony, Akpe congratulated the defectors for what he described as a bold political decision and encouraged others who are still outside the party to join.
He emphasised that the APC in Bayelsa is strengthening its political structure and is well positioned to win upcoming elections in the state.
Leading the group of defectors was Dr. Christopher Ewhrudjakpo, a retired Permanent Secretary and elder brother of the late deputy governor.
Dr. Ewhrudjakpo, who currently serves as Special Adviser to the Governor on Environment, said the decision by members of the Ofoni communities was influenced by their confidence in the leadership of Governor Diri.
The defectors are largely from Wards 3 and 4 of Ofoni Federated Communities in Constituency One of Sagbama Local Government Area.
He noted that the current Deputy Governor also hails from the same state constituency as the late deputy governor.
According to him, the people of Ofoni appreciate the support they have received from the governor.
“Governor Diri has been very generous to the Ofoni people, adding that where he leads, they will follow.”
Several political leaders and government officials attended the event, including former Commissioner for Youths and Sports Development Kemi Prefa, Director of Transportation at Government House Chief Lucky Youbougha, and Director-General of the Bayelsa State Microfinance and Enterprise Development Agency Barr. Embeleakpo Apere.
Others present included APC Sagbama West Senatorial Vice Chairman Mr. Akwaka B. Akwaka, Assistant Publicity Secretary of APC Bayelsa Hon. Kemenanaebi Ogbe, and APC Chairman in Sagbama Hon. Arioka Uhwoma.
Also in attendance were APC Sagbama Secretary Hon. Obidake Funkeyi Kerry, Coordinator of Renewed Hope Ambassadors in Sagbama Chief Okubokakpo Ombu, Hon. Ayakeme Whisky, Engineer Olice Kemenanabo, and other government functionaries.
Political analysts say the defection of more than 500 members could further reshape political alignments in Bayelsa as parties continue to consolidate their support base ahead of future elections.
The APC leadership in the state believes the influx of new members will strengthen the party’s grassroots presence and expand its political reach across local communities. Read More
