In a political shakeup that has sent ripples across Bayelsa State, Governor Douye Diri officially resigned from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) on Wednesday, ending weeks of speculation and setting the stage for fresh realignments in the Niger Delta.
The announcement came during an expanded State Executive Council meeting at the Government House in Yenagoa, where Governor Diri made it clear he was not leaving the party alone.
Accompanying him in this historic exit were the Speaker, Deputy Speaker, and several key members of the PDP caucus in the Bayelsa State Assembly.
“After extensive consultation, today, the 15th of October 2025, I wish to formally notify you that I, Governor Douye Diri, do hereby resign my membership of the Peoples Democratic Party. I am not resigning alone,” Diri stated, signaling a coordinated defection that has captured political attention nationwide.
PDP’s Response: Unity in the Face of Departure
Despite the significant loss, the PDP Bayelsa State chapter responded with a calm and unified front. In a statement by the State Publicity Secretary, Ebiye Agu Ogoli, the party confirmed that it has formally accepted Governor Diri’s resignation while affirming that the party structures in Bayelsa remain solid and unwavering.
“The Bayelsa State Chapter of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has formally accepted the resignation of the State Governor, Senator Douye Diri, from the party. This decision was reached after an emergency meeting of the State Working Committee held shortly after the Governor’s announcement,” Ogoli said.
Party officials expressed appreciation for Diri’s leadership and the positive relationships he maintained during his tenure as a PDP member.
They also reassured party supporters and members that the PDP remains committed to its vision and goals in Bayelsa, vowing continued loyalty and resilience despite the recent setback.
Emergency Meeting & Party Leadership Solidarity
The emergency State Working Committee meeting, which was held on Wednesday evening in Yenagoa, was attended by top PDP leaders, including Chairman Hon. Solomon Agwana, Deputy Chairman Hon. Ben George Odon, and other key officials.
Also Read: PDP Slams Defecting Governors Over Selfish Ambitions
The gathering underscored the party’s resolve to stay united and focused on the future.
Ogoli emphasized the party’s gratitude towards Governor Diri for his service and leadership and wished him success in his future endeavors outside the PDP.
What’s Next for Bayelsa Politics?
Governor Diri’s resignation marks a pivotal moment in Bayelsa’s political landscape.
While the PDP vows to hold its ground, the departure of a sitting governor — along with key assembly members — signals shifts that will undoubtedly impact party dynamics ahead of the 2027 elections.
The question on everyone’s lips now: How will the PDP navigate this new terrain and re-energize its base in the face of defections? For Bayelsa, the next chapter promises political drama and strategic maneuvering that will be closely watched across Nigeria.
