DEFECTION: Bayelsa Deputy Governor Urges APC New Members to Support Tinubu’s Re-election

The Deputy Governor of Bayelsa State, Dr. Peter Akpe, has called on new members of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in the state to work towards ensuring the victory of the party’s candidates, including President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, in the 2027 general elections.

Dr. Akpe made the call on Tuesday while receiving defectors from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) at Government House, Yenagoa.

Prominent among the defectors were former PDP State Secretary, Deacon James Agari; Technical Adviser to Governor Douye Diri on Special Duties and former PDP Legal Adviser, Mr. Richard Perekeme; and a serving councillor representing Ward Six in Sagbama Local Government Area, Ebipere Napoleon.

The Deputy Governor described their defection as a demonstration of genuine solidarity with the Prosperity Government and the ruling party, noting that it would further strengthen peace, development, and progress in the state.

He dismissed allegations in some quarters that the administration of Governor Douye Diri employs coercion or financial inducement to attract defectors, insisting that membership of the APC in the state remains voluntary.

“Governor Douye Diri does not believe in coercion or financial inducement. People are given the opportunity to make informed decisions, and we welcome them wholeheartedly without pressure,” he said.

Dr. Akpe urged the new members to integrate fully into the party and contribute meaningfully to its growth, particularly in Sagbama Local Government Area.

 “Your political relevance was not built overnight, and it must not be wasted. The party leadership will ensure due recognition for your contributions. Let us unite to strengthen the APC and deliver all our candidates in future elections,” he added.

He also emphasized the need for unity, peace, and tolerance among party members, assuring that all members would be given equal recognition.

In his remarks, the APC Senatorial Vice Chairman (West), Mr. Akuakwa B. Akuakwa, formally welcomed the defectors, describing their move as timely and beneficial to the party’s prospects. He urged party members in the zone to work collaboratively to achieve success in upcoming elections.

Speaking on behalf of the defectors, Deacon James Agari attributed their decision to join the APC to what he described as the disintegration of the PDP, as well as the need to align with the leadership of Governor Douye Diri.

Agari commended the governor’s inclusive leadership style and called for continued support for the current administration in the interest of the state.

“We initially stayed back, but having assessed the situation, we believe this is the right time to join the APC and support the governor for the overall good of Bayelsa State,” he stated.