The National Democratic Congress (NDC) has suffered a significant political blow in Bayelsa State, the home base of its national leader, Senator Henry Seriake Dickson. In a series of high-profile departures, several key members have formally defected to the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC), citing internal grievances and systemic dissatisfaction.
The exodus is led by Deacon Felix Wilson, the declared winner of the NDC’s primary election for the Sagbama Constituency II House of Assembly seat. Mr Wilson announced his resignation at the office of the Bayelsa State Deputy Governor, Dr Peter Akpe, alleging that his candidacy was undermined by party leadership.
Mr Wilson contends that despite his success in the primary, his name was surreptitiously removed and substituted with that of Michael Magbisa, the individual he had previously defeated.
“I am a candidate for Sagbama Constituency Two under the NDC,” Mr Wilson stated. “I want the people of my constituency to know that the NDC is not a sound party; otherwise, I would not have left my former family. I have joined the APC, which is a party of progress, and I am committed to this movement.”
Mr Wilson confirmed that his decision to switch allegiances included his substantial network of long-standing supporters. He expressed satisfaction with the reception he received from the APC, pledging his full commitment to the party’s future electoral success.
The shift in political loyalty extended beyond the Sagbama constituency. Mr Saheed Umar, formerly the NDC Vice Chairman for Ogbia Local Government Area, also declared his exit from the party. “As a progressive youth, I have chosen to align with the ruling party and embrace the winning team. I am here to serve in the APC,” Mr Umar remarked.
Other prominent figures who have transitioned to the APC include: Victor Egba, NDC Ogbia Constituency I aspirant, Gilbert Alawei, Agidi George, Azibola Oru, Solomon Etor, Fineman Eseimokumo and Munteuma Clifford.
Deputy Governor Dr Peter Akpe, acting on behalf of the state leadership, officially received the defectors at his office. The new members were seen waving the APC’s symbolic broom as they pledged their loyalty to the ruling party.
Dr Akpe commended the group for their decision and urged them to contribute actively to the party’s unity. He stressed that their primary focus should be the continued development of the state and the consolidation of the current Prosperity Administration.
Analysts suggest this development highlights deepening fractures within the NDC’s state apparatus, potentially altering the electoral dynamics in Bayelsa as the party struggles to maintain cohesion in the wake of these resignations.
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