In a move that has sent shockwaves through the Niger Delta, Ijaw leaders and lawmakers have overwhelmingly rallied behind Bayelsa State Governor Douye Diri's defection to the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC). This isn't just a political shift; it's a powerful statement of unity and strategic alignment with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu's vision for Nigeria. But here's where it gets controversial: is this a genuine act of political conviction, or a calculated maneuver ahead of the 2027 elections? The Ijaw nation's support for Tinubu, championed by figures like Chief Government Ekpomupolo (Tompolo), has sparked both admiration and debate.
Led by prominent figures like Hon. Julius Gbabojor Pondi, a three-term House of Representatives member, and Dennis Emomotimi Guwor, Speaker of the Delta State Assembly, Ijaw lawmakers from Ondo and Delta states gathered at the Samson Siasia Sports Complex to demonstrate their solidarity. This wasn't just a local affair; it was a grand ceremony attended by a broad spectrum of Ijaw political leaders within the APC, including former Deputy Speaker Hon. Funkekeme Solomon and APC State Deputy Chairman Hon. Agabra Atili.
Pondi, in a passionate address, framed Governor Diri's defection as more than a personal choice. He described it as a symbolic act reflecting the Ijaw nation's unwavering commitment to Tinubu's reelection in 2027. "Governor Diri didn't act alone," Pondi emphasized. "This decision was made on behalf of our people, and we applaud his courage in making it at such a strategic time." He hinted at a larger mobilization effort, promising that in the coming weeks, Nigerians would witness the Ijaw nation's resolve to rally support for the APC and its leadership.
But this is the part most people miss: The defection isn't just about party politics; it's about positioning the Ijaw nation for growth and development. Pondi stressed that the Ijaw people are a unique group whose decisions must align with national interests to foster progress. This raises a thought-provoking question: Can political defections truly drive regional development, or are they merely tools for personal and group advancement?
Hon. Donald Ojogo, another Ijaw federal lawmaker representing the Ilaje/Ese-Odo constituency in Ondo State, expressed his elation over Governor Diri's move, particularly highlighting Tompolo's rare endorsement of President Tinubu. "When Tompolo openly supported Tinubu, it was a clear sign that the Ijaw nation was becoming more politically integrated with the center," Ojogo noted. "With Governor Diri's defection, we're already on the path to prosperity."
Ojogo's statement, while optimistic, invites scrutiny. Is the Ijaw nation's alignment with the APC a guarantee of prosperity, or is it a gamble on Tinubu's leadership? The defection of Governor Diri, along with his entire State Executive Council, most State Assembly members, and all council chairmen, was celebrated in a colorful event in Yenagoa, the state capital. Vice President Kashim Shettima, APC National Chairman Professor Nentawe Yilwatda, Senate President Godswill Akpabio, and at least ten APC governors were on hand to welcome them.
As the dust settles on this political earthquake, one thing is clear: the Ijaw nation is positioning itself as a key player in Nigeria's political future. But the question remains: Is this a step toward unity and progress, or a divisive move that could alienate other groups? We invite you to share your thoughts in the comments—do you see this defection as a positive development, or are there deeper concerns that need addressing?
