In a major political shake‑up, Bola Tinubu has hailed the defection of Douye Diri, Governor of Bayelsa State, from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) to the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) as a “symbol of progress and unity.”

Represented by Vice‑President Kashim Shettima at the official welcoming ceremony in Yenagoa, Tinubu praised Diri’s leadership, commitment to development and his vision for Bayelsa. “The All Progressives Congress is a party of those who believe that progress can only be guaranteed when we stand together,” he said.

He added.

“Governor Douye Diri, your story mirrors that of your people. Politics is about development, not noise or opposition. We are mightily proud of you. You have made the right decision.”

Tinubu emphasised that Diri’s move was more than a party‑switching event — it was a “homecoming to the progressive family” and a reaffirmation of unified governance, especially in a region long aligned with the opposition.

The defection is viewed as a watershed moment in South‑South Nigerian politics, given Bayelsa’s previous status as a PDP stronghold. Diri’s decision followed his October 15 resignation from the PDP and came after the majority of his state assembly congratulated the move.

With this development, analysts say the APC has further consolidated its foothold in regions formerly dominated by the opposition — shaping the political terrain ahead of the 2027 elections.