From Kenechukwu Obiajuru, Yenagoa
The All Progressives Congress (APC) in Bayelsa State received a major boost as thousands of former members of the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) officially defected to the ruling party in a well-attended ceremony at the Ekeremor Civic Center Pavilion. The event, led by the Minister of State for Petroleum Resources (Oil), Sen. Heineken Lokpobiri, Ph.D, marked one of the largest political realignments in Ekeremor in recent times.
Representing the APC’s national and State leadership, Sen. Lokpobiri described the mass defection as a reaffirmation of confidence in the “transformative leadership of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu” and a decisive step toward a more progressive future for the community. “Our party is open to all who desire genuine development,” he stated. “Ekeremor Ward 8 remains a stronghold of progressive politics, and today’s event reinforces our collective commitment to unity, service, and growth.”
The Minister emphasized the importance of cohesion within the ward, urging leaders and members to remain steadfast in protecting their political space from undue external influence. He likened the APC structure in the ward to a vessel built to accommodate all who seek progress. “Just like the biblical Ark of Noah, the APC in Ekeremor has room for everyone willing to work for the advancement of our people,” he noted.
Speaking on behalf of the defecting group, Barr. Belemu Nemine, Former Chairman, Ekeremor Local Government Council, expressed confidence in their decision to embrace the ruling party, citing the development-focused leadership of the APC. “We are joining the APC because we believe in the direction the Minister and the national leadership are taking Nigeria,” he said. “Our community deserves progress, and we are ready to contribute wholeheartedly.”
Sen. Lokpobiri further encouraged the people of Ekeremor Ward 8 to take full advantage of the ongoing voter registration exercise, stressing its importance ahead of the 2027 general elections. He reaffirmed his commitment to implementing the developmental blueprint designed to improve infrastructure, empowerment, and opportunities across the ward.
