Bayelsa State Governor, Douye Diri, has said his decision to defect from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) to the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) was made purely in the interest of the state.
Diri made the statement on Sunday during the 14th Bayelsa Thanksgiving Day held at the Ecumenical Centre in Igbogene, Yenagoa. It was his first public comment since officially resigning from the PDP on October 15.
The governor, who recently concluded his second term, said although some people might not immediately understand his move, time would reveal that his decision was driven by genuine concern for Bayelsa’s progress.
“Somebody had to take the decision, and I took it on behalf of the state,” Diri said. “I took it in the best interest of Bayelsa. Some of you might not understand now, but later it will be clear to all.”
He expressed satisfaction at the unity displayed by political leaders who attended the Thanksgiving service, describing the gathering as a reflection of peace and cooperation across party lines.
“When we came in as a government, what we did at the beginning was to ensure that most of the uncompleted projects were completed, and we introduced new ones. That alone is enough reason to thank God,” he added.
The governor noted that politics should be a platform for development and unity, not conflict or rivalry, stressing that his administration had prioritized peace and security since inception.
“The peace and security we are enjoying is another reason to thank God. Politics is for development and not to kill your brother. The gathering here is a testimony of the unity in the state,” Diri said.
He also urged Bayelsans to continue to cultivate a spirit of thanksgiving, emphasizing that gratitude fosters progress and harmony.
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