Consensus Strengthens APC Unity in South-South, Diri Says as Leaders Back Tinubu’s Re-election

Governor of Bayelsa State, Douye Diri, has described the adoption of the consensus mode of electing party officials by the All Progressives Congress (APC) as a vital step toward fostering unity and strengthening the party ahead of the 2027 general elections.

Diri made the remarks on Wednesday during the APC South-South Zonal Congress held in Asaba.

The governor, who chairs the South-South Governors Forum, expressed satisfaction that the region is now politically aligned under the APC, emphasizing the importance of unity in securing greater influence at the national level.

According to him, the consensus approach has significantly reduced internal conflicts traditionally associated with delegate-based primaries.

Reflecting on his political journey, Diri recalled that during the 2019 governorship primaries, the delegate system often led to tension and division. He noted that the shift to consensus-building represents a more peaceful and inclusive process.

“There cannot be anything better than a united family,” he said, urging party members in the region to avoid divisions and work collectively to ensure electoral success in 2027.

Diri also commended President Bola Tinubu for reforms in political processes, noting that party congresses are now more orderly and less prone to violence.

In his remarks, President of the Senate, Godswill Akpabio, praised the outgoing National Vice Chairman (South-South), Victor Giadom, for his efforts in uniting political leaders in the region under the APC.

kpabio expressed delight over Diri’s alignment with the party, describing the Bayelsa governor as a calm and admirable leader. He stated that the South-South is now better positioned to deliver strong electoral support for President Tinubu in the next general elections.

He also highlighted the significance of the region producing a Senate President under Tinubu’s administration, describing it as a milestone in the South-South’s political recognition.

The host governor, Sheriff Oborevwori, alongside governors from Rivers, Akwa Ibom, Edo, and Cross River states, echoed calls for unity and pledged their commitment to securing Tinubu’s re-election.

At the congress, Giadom was returned as the APC South-South Zonal Chairman alongside other executives, reaffirming the party’s leadership structure in the region.

In his acceptance remarks, Giadom described the presence of governors, lawmakers, ministers, and stakeholders as a clear demonstration of the region’s resolve to deliver victory for all APC candidates in the forthcoming elections.

The motion for the dissolution of the outgoing zonal executive was moved by the Speaker of the Delta State House of Assembly, Emomotimi Guwor, and seconded by his Bayelsa counterpart, Abraham Ingobere.

The congress concluded with renewed commitments from party leaders to strengthen unity and consolidate the APC’s position in the South-South ahead of 2027.