APC chieftain urges unity as Governor Diri joins ruling party

From Amgbare Prince, Yenagoa

A Chieftain of All Progressives Congress (APC), in Bayelsa State, Chief Blankson Osomkime has applauded Governor Douye Diri’s defection to the party, calling it a “bold and selfless” step that prioritizes the welfare of Bayelsans and the broader Ijaw nation.

Speaking to journalists in Yenagoa, Osomkime hailed the governor’s move as a strategic alignment that will unlock federal resources under President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda.

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“This is a game-changer for our state,” Osomkime said. “Governor Diri’s decision reflects deep sacrifice for progress. There must be no divide between founding APC members and newcomers.

He urged party loyalists across Bayelsa to embrace Diri and his supporters without reservation, stressing that collective backing is essential for the governor’s development goals.

Osomkime extended gratitude to President Tinubu for fostering an inclusive platform that has delivered “unprecedented transformation” nationwide.

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He expressed confidence that Bayelsa’s new ties to the center will yield more infrastructure, jobs, and opportunities.

The APC stalwart also commended key figures for their roles in smoothing the transition, including Senator Heineken Lokpobiri, Minister of State for Petroleum Resources (Oil); Chief Samuel Ogbuku, NDDC Managing Director; Prince Ebitimi Amgbare, Niger River Basin Development Authority boss; former governorship candidate Chief David Lyon; Hon. Preye Aganaba; and Chief Pastor Reuben Wilson.

“These leaders have shown true statesmanship,” he added. “May God grant them strength to sustain this unity.”