Mass Defection Shakes APC in Bayelsa State as Seibarugu, Supporters Join PDP

The All Progressives Congress (APC) in Bayelsa State has been dealt a severe blow as the influential Seibarugu Political Dynasty and its thousands of members have officially defected to the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP).

Led by the former Acting Governor and Speaker of the House of Assembly, Werinipre Seibarugu, the Seibarugu Dynasty made their declaration during a meeting with Governor Douye Diri at the Government House in Yenagoa. The coordinator of the Seibarugu Dynasty, Mr. Ebiye Waripamo, cited Governor Diri’s peaceful and development-oriented leadership style as the primary reason for their switch to the PDP.

Waripamo emphasized their admiration for Governor Diri’s performance over the past four years, particularly the prevailing peace and security in the state and the ongoing development projects. He stated, “We left Jerusalem and went to Egypt but now we are back in Jerusalem, and this is where we will stay. We are not going back again.”

PDP’s National Financial Secretary, Daniel Woyengikuro, led party members from the Gbarain-Ekpetiama axis of Yenagoa Local Government Area to formally introduce the Seibarugu Dynasty to the governor. The state PDP chairman, Mr. Solomon Agwana, welcomed the group and assured them that they would not face discrimination within the party.

In response, Governor Douye Diri expressed his appreciation for the Seibarugu Dynasty’s leader and described Seibarugu as a man of conviction and integrity. He commended their decision to return to the PDP along with their numerous supporters.

Governor Diri also took the opportunity to criticize the APC in the state, labeling it a deceitful party that has not contributed positively to the state’s development. He argued that the former governor, the APC candidate, had failed to deliver meaningful results during his time in office.

In a related development, Governor Diri issued a stern warning to traditional rulers regarding electoral violence. During a visit to the palace of the Okpo XXI of Okpoama Kingdom, King Ebitimi Banigo, in Brass Local Government Area, he cautioned that any traditional ruler found complicit in election-related violence would face deposition. Governor Diri emphasized his commitment to upholding democratic principles and maintaining peace during the upcoming elections.