Bayelsa State in Nigeria’s South-South region has undergone a significant political realignment, marked by a strategic transition of power and party identity within the All Progressives Congress (APC). At the forefront of this development is Senator Heineken Lokpobiri, the Minister of State for Petroleum Resources, whose influence and political acumen have been instrumental in stabilizing the APC in Bayelsa.
Historically, Bayelsa has been a stronghold of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), with a deep-seated loyalty rooted in decades of electoral dominance. However, the political landscape began to shift in 2025, as dissatisfaction with the PDP’s internal strife grew, and key figures started to explore alternative platforms. Governor Douye Diri’s decision to resign from the PDP on October 15, 2025, marked a turning point, paving the way for his eventual defection to the APC.
Lokpobiri’s leadership played a pivotal role in this transition, as he adopted an inclusive approach, advocating for unity and strategic patience among party stakeholders. His endorsement of Diri’s decision to join the APC helped reassure various factions within the party, including supporters of former governor Timipre Sylva, that the governor’s entry would strengthen the party’s local presence.
Despite internal challenges and rivalries between key leaders, Lokpobiri’s ability to navigate these nuances helped preserve the APC’s operational effectiveness. On November 3, 2025, Governor Diri formally declared his allegiance to the APC, symbolizing a broader political shift in Bayelsa. The move was welcomed by party leadership, including President Bola Tinubu, who characterized the moment as one of unity and progress for both Bayelsa and the country.
Diri’s decision to join the APC was driven by a desire to unlock fresh opportunities for state projects and federal collaboration, which he believes will drive development in Bayelsa. The combined efforts of Lokpobiri and Diri have resulted in a calculated political shift, marked by negotiation, consensus-building, and strategic timing. As the state prepares for the 2027 general elections, the APC in Bayelsa now boasts a stronger leadership profile, positioning the party for potential electoral victories and sustained governance partnerships between state and federal stakeholders.
