In a significant political realignment, members of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in the Bayelsa State House of Assembly have publicly endorsed the defection of their colleague, Hon. Naomi Diris, to the All Progressives Congress (APC).
The surprise move came during Thursday’s plenary session when PDP lawmakers rose in unanimous support of Diris’ decision, describing it as “a courageous step toward progressive governance.” Assembly Speaker Hon. Abraham Ingobere confirmed the House’s acceptance of the defection notice, which was formally communicated through a letter read on the floor.
Diris, representing Brass Constituency 3, cited “irreconcilable differences in political ideology” and the need to “align with development-focused leadership at the national level” as reasons for her defection. The two-term lawmaker is the third high-profile PDP member in Bayelsa to cross to the APC this month alone.
Political observers note the defection signals growing cracks in the PDP’s dominance in the oil-rich state, coming barely six months after Governor Douye Diri’s re-election. APC State Chairman Dennis Otiotio described the development as “the beginning of a new political era,” while PDP officials downplayed the impact, insisting the party remains united.
Implications for Bayelsa’s Political Landscape
This defection threatens to alter the balance of power in the state assembly, where the PDP currently holds 18 of 24 seats. Analysts suggest it may embolden more defections ahead of 2027 elections and could complicate governance as Diri’s administration faces an increasingly assertive opposition bloc. The move also raises questions about potential realignments in the Niger Delta’s political calculus ahead of the next general elections.
