Over 600 Political Figures Join Nigeria Democratic Congress In Bayelsa State

By Gabriel Ukuta—

A significant political shift is underway in Bayelsa State, with over 600 members of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), All Progressives Congress (APC), African Democratic Congress, and other parties across the state’s eight local government areas defecting to the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC) in Yenagoa. Observers have described the move as a major realignment.

The defection event, which attracted a large crowd of supporters, leaders, women, and young people, represents one of the earliest large-scale political shifts since the NDC’s emergence.

Attendees at the gathering described the decision to join the NDC as a strategic one, driven by a belief that the party prioritises the welfare of the people.

Speaking at the event, grassroots mobiliser Hon. Romeo Richman stated that the defectors’ decision stemmed from their admiration for the leadership of Ofurumampepe and their desire to embrace the vision and philosophy of the Nigeria Democratic Congress.

He explained that the NDC represents a new political movement focused on service, accountability, and visionary leadership.

“The Nigeria Democratic Congress is a people-oriented party with a clear vision for the future. Those who have joined today strongly believe in its mission and are ready to work towards building a political platform that genuinely serves the interests of the people,” he said.

Hon. Richman further clarified that the defectors came from various political parties across Bayelsa State and include party leaders, grassroots mobilisers, women’s groups, and young people, all seeking a progressive political alternative.

He emphasised that many new members felt they had “seen the light” with the NDC and were determined to support a movement promising renewed hope and development for the people of Bayelsa State and Nigeria as a whole.

Speaking to journalists after the ceremony, the NDC Secretary in Bayelsa State, Alex Dumbo, praised the defectors for their courageous and patriotic decision.

He thanked them for their confidence in the party and assured them that the NDC would remain committed to its core ideals of justice, fairness, and people-centred governance.

“The NDC is a party for all Nigerians who feel disenfranchised. It’s a platform that promises to give a voice to the voiceless and restore hope to the people. We welcome all those who have made this bold decision to join the movement,” Dumbo said.

He also revealed that, just a week after the party’s formation, the NDC had already registered over two million members nationwide through its ongoing membership drive, and expects this number to grow significantly in the coming weeks.

Hon. Dumbo noted that the wave of defections isn’t limited to Bayelsa State, but is spreading across the country, indicating growing national interest in the new political platform.

Political analysts suggest this development could signal the beginning of a new phase in Bayelsa’s political landscape, as emerging platforms continue to attract supporters seeking alternative voices within Nigeria’s democratic system.