The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Bayelsa State has said that even though Governor Douye Diri has left the party, its structure in the state remains strong and united.
Governor Diri, who led the PDP zoning committee that gave the party’s 2023 presidential ticket to the South, announced his resignation from the PDP on Wednesday during a meeting of the State Executive Council at the Government House in Yenagoa.
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His decision ended weeks of speculation about his possible defection.
He said his resignation came after “wide consultations” with key stakeholders in the state.
“After extensive consultation, I, Governor Douye Diri, hereby resign my membership of the Peoples Democratic Party,” he declared. “I am not leaving alone. I’m here with the Speaker, the Deputy Speaker, and other members of the Assembly who are with me. Today, we have officially left the PDP for very clear reasons.”
Reacting to his resignation, the PDP in Bayelsa held an emergency meeting in Yenagoa, where it said it had accepted Diri’s resignation with respect but maintained that its structures across the state remained firm.
In a statement by the State Publicity Secretary, Hon. Ebiye Agu Ogoli, the party thanked Governor Diri for his past contributions and peaceful relationship with party members. It also assured members that the PDP’s commitment to its goals and principles remains unchanged.
“The Bayelsa State PDP has formally accepted the resignation of Governor Douye Diri,” the statement said. “The governor’s letter was addressed to the chairman of his ward in Kolokuma/Opokuma and copied to the State Working Committee.
“While we respect his decision, we reaffirm our dedication to the PDP’s vision and unity. All our structures across the state remain solid and united,” Ogoli added.
The party also wished Governor Diri success in his future political journey.
Those who attended the emergency meeting included the State Chairman, Hon. Solomon Agwana, Deputy Chairman, Hon. Ben George Odon, State Secretary, Hon. Gesiye Isowo, and other top officials of the Bayelsa PDP.