In a show of solidarity across the Niger Delta, federal and state lawmakers of Ijaw extraction have applauded the decision of Bayelsa State Governor, Senator Douye Diri, to defect from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) to the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC).
The lawmakers, drawn from Ondo and Delta States, were led to the Samson Siasia Sports Complex, Yenagoa, by a three-term member of the House of Representatives for Burutu Federal Constituency, Hon. Julius Gbabojor Pondi, PhD, alongside the Speaker of the Delta State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Dennis Emomotimi Guwor.
Also in attendance were notable Ijaw political figures within the APC, including the former Deputy Speaker of the Delta Assembly, Hon. Funkekeme Solomon, and the APC Deputy Chairman in Ondo State, Hon. Agabra Atili.
Speaking at the event, Pondi described Diri’s defection as a collective step reflecting the aspirations of the Ijaw people.
“This move is not just a personal decision by the governor; it symbolizes the unwavering support of the entire Ijaw Nation for President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s re-election in 2027,” Pondi said.
“Governor Diri’s defection is a decision taken on behalf of our people. We salute his courage at this strategic moment. You can see the overwhelming presence of Ijaw lawmakers here today from both the National and State Assemblies.”
He further hinted that the Ijaw political leadership would soon roll out a series of mobilization efforts for the APC ahead of 2027.
Adding his voice, the member representing Ilaje/Ese-Odo Federal Constituency of Ondo State, Hon. Donald Ojogo, said Diri’s defection validates the renewed political alignment of the Ijaw Nation.
“We are home and dry because the circle is now complete,” Ojogo declared.
“I can hardly recall when our leader, Tompolo, openly endorsed anyone for political office. His support for President Tinubu convinced us that the Ijaw Nation is fully integrated at the centre. With Diri’s defection, we are on the path of unity and prosperity.”
Governor Diri, along with members of his State Executive Council, the majority of the State House of Assembly, and all local government chairmen, officially joined the APC on Monday.
They were received in a colourful ceremony by Vice President Kashim Shettima, APC National Chairman Prof. Nentawe Yilwatda, Senate President Godswill Akpabio, and at least ten governors elected on the party’s platform.
