Bayelsa Governor Diri Says He Won’t Force Deputy Ewhrudjakpo to Join APC, Urges Unity Over Politics

Governor Douye Diri of Bayelsa State has declared that he will not compel his deputy, Lawrence Ewhrudjakpo, to defect with him to the All Progressives Congress (APC).

The governor, who officially joined the APC on November 3 after resigning from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) on October 15, made the remark during a State Executive Council meeting held at the Government House in Yenagoa on Wednesday, where his deputy was also in attendance.

PulseNets learnt that Ewhrudjakpo had earlier approached the Federal High Court in Abuja to obtain an injunction stopping the Bayelsa State House of Assembly from initiating impeachment proceedings against him for declining to join the APC.

Speaking during the session, Diri emphasized that his leadership approach is guided by dialogue rather than coercion, noting that

“I believe in engagement, not confrontation. Politics should unite us, not divide us.”

He explained that, although it remains challenging for the two leaders to operate from different political platforms, ongoing private discussions between him and Ewhrudjakpo have been encouraging.

According to Diri, the legal case filed by his deputy to restrain the legislature from impeaching him has now been withdrawn as a result of these discussions. PulseNets obtained information confirming that the development followed a series of reconciliatory meetings between both leaders.

The governor further appealed to Bayelsans to prioritize unity and peace over political differences, urging citizens to view politics as a tool for development rather than division.

In his words,

“Let me clear the air on this issue that has been circulating. I have no intention of forcing anyone to join the APC. My duty is to persuade, not to compel. Power is transient — you have it today, you may not have it tomorrow.”

Also Read: Defection: Why I’m Joining APC — Bayelsa Gov. Douye Diri Breaks Silence

Diri added that cooperation between him and his deputy was essential for governance, saying,

“It’s not ideal for the governor to be on one side and the deputy on another, but we’ll keep talking. Who knows — we might end up in the same party tomorrow.”

He concluded by reaffirming his administration’s commitment to peace and development, declaring that

“Bayelsa is done with violence. We are brothers, we are one. Politics should build the state, not break it.”