The Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC) has suffered a fresh wave of defections in Bayelsa State, with a House of Assembly candidate, a local government vice chairman and several other members dumping the party for the All Progressives Congress (APC).
The Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC) has recorded another political setback in Bayelsa State following the defection of several key members, including its House of Assembly candidate for Sagbama Constituency II and the party’s vice chairman in Ogbia Local Government Area, to the All Progressives Congress (APC). The defectors were formally received by Bayelsa Deputy Governor, Dr. Peter Akpe, at the Government House in Yenagoa.
Leading the group was Deacon Felix Wilson, winner of the NDC House of Assembly primary for Sagbama Constituency II. Wilson said his decision to leave the party followed what he described as irreconcilable challenges after his name was allegedly removed and replaced with that of Michael Magbisa despite emerging victorious in the primary election.
Also joining the APC was Saheed Umar, the NDC Vice Chairman in Ogbia Local Government Area. Umar said he decided to align with the ruling party, describing himself as “a progressive youth” who wanted to serve through the APC. Other defectors included Victor Egba, Gilbert Alawei, Agidi George, Azibola Oru, Solomon Etor, Fineman Eseimokumo and Munteuma Clifford.
The defections come shortly after the NDC faced legal challenges over its registration, adding to the party’s recent political difficulties in Bayelsa State. The movement of party officials and aspirants to the APC further shifts attention to the evolving political landscape ahead of the 2027 elections.
Receiving the defectors, Bayelsa Deputy Governor Dr. Peter Akpe welcomed them into the APC and urged them to work for the unity and growth of the party while supporting the development of the state. Wilson pledged his loyalty to the APC, while Umar assured the party of his commitment to its objectives and future electoral success.
With the latest defections, the APC has added several former NDC leaders and supporters to its ranks in Bayelsa State, while the NDC continues to navigate internal and legal challenges ahead of the next electoral cycle.