The political atmosphere in Bayelsa State took a dramatic turn this week following the defection of Governor Douye Diri from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) to the All Progressives Congress (APC). The move has continued to generate reactions across political circles, with former Governor and serving Senator representing Bayelsa West, Henry Seriake Dickson, describing the defection as “unfortunate but within his right.”
Speaking in a statement made available to journalists, Senator Dickson, who is widely regarded as Diri’s political mentor, revealed that the governor had previously consulted him several times before making his decision. According to the senator, the conversations they had were frank and cordial, but he had made his position clear based on his long-standing political values and principles.
“To be fair to the Governor, Senator Douye Diri, he consulted me, and we have discussed several times,” Dickson explained. “On each occasion, I told him my position, based on my principles and values, which he knows. These are the same values that guided me when I supported him above other equally qualified contestants.”
The former governor recalled his instrumental role in Diri’s emergence as governor, highlighting that his support was deeply rooted in their shared ideals and collective involvement in the Ijaw struggle and Niger Delta movement.
“His local government, which happens to be the smallest in the state, had never produced a governor before. I felt it was right to give that part of the state a sense of inclusion,” Dickson stated. “Beyond that, he has been part of my political family since 2012, and we worked together closely.”
While expressing disappointment over Diri’s defection, Dickson maintained that the decision ultimately lies within the governor’s personal and political freedom. He, however, hinted that many recent defections across Nigeria’s political landscape raise questions about the motivations of political leaders.
“It is unfortunate that he has taken this step, which he is at liberty to take,” Dickson said. “As I said, these days, you don’t know what is pursuing most of these governors and leaders defecting to the APC, or what they are pursuing. I wish him the best of luck.”
Political observers note that Dickson’s statement strikes a careful balance between loyalty and restraint, reflecting his trademark political maturity and adherence to principle. For years, Dickson has been seen as one of the few politicians in the Niger Delta who has maintained a consistent ideological leaning, prioritizing regional development, the Ijaw cause, and party discipline over personal gain.
His latest comment underscores the ideological divide that continues to shape Bayelsa politics. Diri’s defection, analysts believe, could significantly alter the political alignment in the state ahead of the next electoral cycle, potentially weakening the PDP’s dominance and strengthening the APC’s growing influence in the South-South.
As Bayelsa navigates the aftermath of this political realignment, Senator Dickson’s tone remains that of a leader advocating for stability, principle, and reflection, reminding both his allies and adversaries that politics, at its best, should remain anchored in values, not opportunities.
