APC Leader and Supporters Switch to PDP in Bayelsa

A leader of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Gabriel Claudius, has switched to the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) with his supporters in Elebele, Ogbia Local Government Area of Bayelsa State.

The group was officially welcomed on Monday at a ceremony in Ogbia. Leaders from the PDP at both local and state levels were present at the event.

The Ogbia PDP Chairman, Ofoni Morgan, called PDP the political home for the people of the area. He stated that PDP is the party that gave Nigeria its first President from the Ijaw ethnic group. He claimed that the party still enjoys strong support in the region.

Mr Morgan praised Mr Claudius as a grassroots politician. He believes that Claudius's return will help strengthen the PDP in Elebele and throughout the Ogbia Local Government Area.

The PDP State Chairman, George Turnah, welcomed the new members and introduced them to the party leadership at the state level. Turnah also took the opportunity to urge the Bayelsa State Government to do more about poverty, unemployment, and economic challenges. He said the current administration is falling short of addressing the people's needs.

He pointed out that despite increased federal allocations, many young people and women continue to struggle financially. He noted that Elebele has a large youth population that deserves more political inclusion and a greater role in governance.

Joshua Maciver, a PDP leader in Bayelsa, called the defection a homecoming. He said the party is happy to welcome Mr Claudius and his supporters back.

Mr Maciver added that the PDP is determined to win back important positions in future elections, including Senate, House of Representatives, and Bayelsa State House of Assembly seats. He dismissed claims that recent political changes would weaken the party, insisting that PDP is focused on victory.

Speaking for the new members, Mr Claudius said the PDP is restructuring and getting ready for future elections. He believes the party will come out stronger and more competitive in the next electoral cycle.