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Governor Diri Of Bayelsa Reportedly Considers Defection To APC

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Political anxiety is mounting in Bayelsa State amid strong indications that Governor Douye Diri is in advanced discussions to defect from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) to the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC).

Governor Diri’s potential switch is expected to further weaken the PDP’s standing in the South-South geopolitical zone, following recent defections of Governor Sheriff Oborevwori of Delta State and Governor Umo Eno of Akwa Ibom to the APC.

Investigations reveal that Diri has opened talks with senior officials in the Presidency and has been holding consultations with key political stakeholders in Bayelsa regarding the proposed defection.

A reliable source disclosed that Diri had informed several National Assembly members representing the state of his plans and sought their views on the matter. However, not all lawmakers are reportedly on board.

“Governor Diri has spoken to members of the National Assembly about his intention to leave the PDP.

“While some are supportive, others, like Mitema Obordor (Ogbia), Fred Agbedi (Sagbama/Ekeremor), and Maria Ebikake (Brass/Nembe), have expressed reservations.

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“They believe there is no urgent need for such a political shift,” the source told Daily Sun.

The source also noted that Oboku Oforji (Yenagoa Federal Constituency) is expected to follow the lead of former governor and current Senator representing Bayelsa West, Henry Seriake Dickson.

Senator Dickson is reportedly not in support of the defection but has chosen not to interfere in Diri’s decision.

Meanwhile, Senators Benson Agadaga (Bayelsa East) and Konbowei Benson (Bayelsa Central) are said to be indifferent but likely to move with the governor if the defection occurs.

Governor Diri has also reportedly instructed the Speaker of the Bayelsa State House of Assembly, Abraham Ngobere, to gauge the opinions of lawmakers on the defection.

A senior member of the Assembly confirmed that the Speaker had begun informal consultations and was expected to formally brief the House upon his return from an overseas trip.

“The chances of the governor defecting are very high. Many of us in the Assembly are ready to follow him.

“Bayelsa cannot be the only South-South state still in the PDP, especially given the internal uncertainties.

“The constant risk of our candidacies being voided by court rulings makes the APC a more stable option,” the lawmaker said.

Former Minister of Petroleum and ex-governor of Bayelsa, Chief Timipre Sylva, speaking in a telephone interview, said he was unaware of the reported plans but welcomed the idea.

“If Governor Diri is coming to the APC, I will be happy to receive him.

“When I first introduced the APC in Bayelsa, many dismissed it as not being an Ijaw party. But today, it’s gaining acceptance, and his defection would be a significant boost,” Sylva said.

However, Governor Diri’s Chief Press Secretary, Mr Daniel Alabrah, denied knowledge of any such move.

His words: “I’m not aware of any discussions the governor has had with anyone about defecting.

“Governor Diri is a transparent leader. If he makes such a decision, he will communicate it clearly. For now, I cannot confirm anything because I simply don’t have that information.”

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APC forum commends Gov Yusuf, backs Garo for stronger Kano leadership

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A political pressure group within the All Progressives Congress (APC), the Emerging Progressives Leaders’ Forum (EPLF), has praised Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf for what it described as a bold and strategic move in selecting Murtala Sule Garo as Deputy Governor.

Garo, who previously served as Commissioner for Local Government Affairs in Kano State, was described by the group as a seasoned administrator with a deep understanding of governance and party structure.

In a statement issued by its National Coordinator, Hafiz Idris, the forum said the appointment reflects a firm grasp of Kano’s political realities and the need for experienced leadership to strengthen governance in the state.

The group pointed to Garo’s record in public service, citing his administrative competence, loyalty to party ideals, and consistent ability to deliver results.

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It added that his contributions to the growth of the APC in Kano remain notable, portraying him as a trusted figure within the party.

According to the forum, Garo’s emergence is expected to unify party members, bridge internal divides, and foster stronger cohesion ahead of future political activities.

The statement noted that Garo’s grassroots connection and political experience would not only consolidate governance but also reposition the APC for greater unity and influence in Kano State.

The forum further called on party members to support the new deputy governor, stressing that collective backing is essential for sustaining progress and achieving shared political objectives.

It also expressed optimism that the partnership between Yusuf and Garo would usher in a period of stability, inclusiveness, and effective leadership in the state.

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Nigerian Democratic Working Group Endorses Nomination of Murtala Garo as Deputy Governor

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The Nigerian Democratic Working Group has formally endorsed the nomination of Hon. Murtala Sule Garo as Deputy Governor of Kano State, describing the move as “timely and strategically aligned with the principles of effective governance and democratic consolidation.” This was contained in a statement signed by the group’s National Coordinator, Mohammed Hussaini, on Wednesday, April 22, 2026.

In the statement, the group commended Kano State Governor, Alhaji Abba Kabir Yusuf, for what it called “a well-considered move that reflects political maturity, inclusiveness, and a commitment to strengthening institutional leadership.” According to Hussaini, the nomination demonstrates the Governor’s resolve to build a leadership team capable of delivering on the administration’s promises.

The group emphasized that the nomination underscores the importance of placing experienced and capable individuals in key leadership positions. “This decision enhances governance outcomes and ensures policy implementation that resonates with grassroots realities,” the statement read, stressing the need for leaders who understand the challenges faced by ordinary citizens.

Highlighting the qualities of the nominee, the group noted: “The nomination of Hon. Murtala Sule Garo represents a significant step toward reinforcing administrative efficiency and promoting cohesive governance. It is a decision that highlights the Governor’s dedication to competence, loyalty, and service to the people.” The statement added that Garo’s track record in public service makes him a strong candidate for the role.

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The Nigerian Democratic Working Group further pointed to Garo’s extensive experience in public administration and his active engagement in political processes. “Hon. Garo is well-positioned to support the Governor in delivering on the administration’s development agenda,” Hussaini stated, underscoring the nominee’s potential to strengthen policy execution.

Calling for broad-based support, the group urged political stakeholders across party lines to rally behind the nomination. “We call on APC political stakeholders, irrespective of party affiliations, to support the nomination in the interest of unity, stability, and sustainable development within the state,” the statement declared.

Emphasizing collaboration, the group appealed to political actors to prioritize collective progress over partisan differences. “Enduring governance success depends on shared responsibility and inclusive participation,” Hussaini said, noting that unity among political leaders is essential for long-term stability.

Reaffirming its commitment to democratic values, the Nigerian Democratic Working Group pledged continued support for initiatives that promote good governance, institutional strength, and improved service delivery across Kano State. “We remain dedicated to advancing policies that strengthen democracy and enhance the welfare of citizens,” the statement affirmed.

The group expressed confidence in the Governor’s choice. “We categorically express our confidence that the nomination will further enhance governance structures and contribute meaningfully to the realization of long-term developmental goals in Kano State,” Hussaini said.

 

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Coalition Raises Alarm Over Alleged Plot to Undermine Barau’s 2027 Re-election Bid

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A political pressure group, the Kano State Coalition for Good Governance, has publicly accused unnamed actors of orchestrating efforts to sabotage the anticipated 2027 re-election bid of Deputy Senate President, Barau I. Jibrin.

Addressing journalists on Wednesda the Nigeria Union of Journalists secretariat in Kano , the coalition’s president, Mukhtar Gadanya, alleged that “disgruntled elements” within and outside Kano State are mobilizing resources to disrupt what he described as the “widely supported” political future of the senator representing Kano North Senatorial District.

The group said its members, drawn from all 44 local government areas of Kano State, convened the press conference to alert the public to what it termed a “dangerous and anti-democratic plot” aimed at denying constituents the continuation of Barau’s representation beyond 2027.

 

Gadanya claimed that certain political actors, including what he described as a “failed politician allegedly backed by external interests,” are preparing to challenge Barau through “dubious means” in the next general elections. According to him, the move is part of a broader strategy to destabilize Kano’s political landscape and undermine the senator’s growing national influence.

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“We have credible information that significant resources have been deployed toward this agenda,” Gadanya said. “However, we remain confident that such efforts will fail given the overwhelming grassroots support enjoyed by Senator Barau.”

The coalition used the briefing to outline what it described as Barau’s legislative and developmental track record. It credited him with sponsoring or co-sponsoring nearly 50 bills in the Senate, including the establishment of the North West Development Commission.

Other achievements listed include the upgrade of the Federal College of Education in Kano to a university, the facilitation of the Federal University of Science and Technology in Kabo, and the expansion of educational opportunities through local and international scholarship programs.

The group also pointed to infrastructure and empowerment initiatives such as road construction, installation of solar streetlights, establishment of power projects in Bichi, Kabo, and Dawanau, as well as the annual distribution of thousands of bags of fertilizer to farmers across the senatorial district.

 

Gadanya suggested that Barau’s perceived effectiveness and rising profile could position him for higher leadership roles in the Senate if re-elected, a factor he believes may be driving opposition against him.

“There are clear indications that his performance has earned him national recognition, and this may be unsettling to some political interests,” he said.

 

The coalition called on all political actors to respect democratic principles and refrain from actions that could incite instability. It urged stakeholders to allow voters in Kano North to determine their representation freely in 2027.

The group also expressed appreciation to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for what it described as his continued support for Barau and Kano State.

“Any attempt to override the will of the people will not stand,” Gadanya concluded. “The people of Kano North remain resolute in their support for Senator Barau.”

 

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