The All Progressives Congress (APC) in Bayelsa State received a major boost as thousands of former members of the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) officially defected to the ruling party in a well-attended ceremony at the Ekeremor Civic Center Pavilion.
In a statement signed by Nneamaka Okafor, Special Assistant on Media and Communication to the Minister of State for Petroleum Resources (Oil), the mass defection was described as “a clear demonstration of the people’s growing confidence in the leadership direction of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and the commitment of the APC to inclusive development across Bayelsa State.”
Representing the APC’s national and state leadership, Sen. Heineken Lokpobiri, Ph.D, described the defection as one of the largest political realignments in Ekeremor in recent times. He said the move reaffirms confidence in the “transformative leadership of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu” and marks a decisive step toward a more progressive future for the community.
The Minister emphasized the importance of cohesion within the ward, urging leaders and members to remain steadfast in protecting their political space from undue external influence. He likened the APC structure in the ward to a vessel built to accommodate all who seek progress. “Just like the biblical Ark of Noah, the APC in Ekeremor has room for everyone willing to work for the advancement of our people,” he noted.
Speaking on behalf of the defecting group, Barr. Belemu Nemine, former Chairman of Ekeremor Local Government Council, expressed confidence in their decision to join the ruling party, citing the development-driven leadership of the APC. “We are joining the APC because we believe in the direction the Minister and the national leadership are taking Nigeria,” he said. “Our community deserves progress, and we are ready to contribute wholeheartedly.”
Sen. Lokpobiri also urged the people of Ekeremor Ward 8 to take full advantage of the ongoing voter registration exercise, stressing its importance ahead of the 2027 general elections. He reaffirmed his commitment to implementing the developmental blueprint designed to enhance infrastructure, empowerment, and opportunities across the ward.
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