APC Moves to Counter NDC Influence in Bayelsa as Dickson’s Defection Sparks Political Tension

The All Progressives Congress in Bayelsa State has begun moves to consolidate internal unity as it seeks to counter the growing influence of the newly registered Nigeria Democratic Congress following the defection of former governor and senator representing Bayelsa West, Seriake Dickson.

Dickson recently announced his move to the Nigeria Democratic Congress, a platform he intends to position as a major opposition force in the state.

Political sources in Bayelsa say the new party is making efforts to attract politicians across party lines, particularly those who had earlier defected from the Peoples Democratic Party to the APC.

Investigations indicate that several politicians in the state have received calls encouraging them to join the Nigeria Democratic Congress, with assurances of opportunities to contest elective positions on the party’s platform.

In response, the newly elected chairman of the APC in Bayelsa State, Warman Weri Ogoriba, has begun consultations aimed at strengthening unity within the party.

Ogoriba spoke during a meeting with state and local government coordinators of the Renewed Hope Ambassadors, led by Chief Tiwei Orunimighe, during a private visit.

He said the party leadership, working with Governor Douye Diri, would ensure transparent and rancour-free primary elections guided by the consensus of party stakeholders.

According to him, opposition parties that expect internal divisions within the APC will be disappointed.

“We are operating an open-door policy and have started visiting stakeholders to ensure that the fold of the party is not open to acrimony. Those in the opposition dreaming that there would be an implosion within the APC before they can survive will be disappointed,” Ogoriba said.

Party sources also disclosed that since assuming office, the APC chairman has initiated reconciliation efforts involving key figures within the party.

These include the party’s candidate in the 2023 Bayelsa governorship election, David Lyon, and his running mate, Joshua Maclver.

The consultations are part of broader peace-building efforts aimed at strengthening cohesion among party leaders and maintaining the decision-making process introduced by Governor Douye Diri as leader of the party in the state.

Meanwhile, a former member of the House of Representatives, Israel Sunny Goli, has criticised Dickson over recent comments about the performance of the Diri administration.

Sunny Goli described the remarks as a needless distraction capable of heating the political atmosphere in the state.

He urged the governor to remain focused on governance and ongoing development projects.

According to the former lawmaker, residents of Bayelsa are satisfied with the direction of the current administration and its focus on improving the welfare of citizens.

“It is laughable that he attempts to compare his inglorious administration with that of Governor Douye Diri, who has not only restored tranquillity but has also blurred the lines of partisan politics,” Sunny Goli said.

He also accused Dickson of frequently stirring political tension whenever his personal or political interests are involved.

Sunny Goli urged the governor to ignore the criticism and continue implementing policies aimed at developing the state.