Okoya, Former Bayelsa Finance Commissioner, And Obidient Members Defect To NDC

According to Ireporter Online, a major political realignment has taken place in Bayelsa State as prominent figures from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and members of the Obidient Movement officially defected to the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC).

Among those who joined the NDC are a former PDP governorship aspirant in Bayelsa State, Reuben Okoya, and a former Commissioner for Finance, Prof. Silva Opuala-Charles. They were joined by businessman and politician Diepreye Leghemo, alongside his supporters, as well as PDP women mobiliser Esther Saiyo and her political base. Members of the Obidient Movement in Bayelsa State also defected in significant numbers.

The new entrants were formally welcomed at the NDC state secretariat in Yenagoa on Wednesday by the party’s National Chairman, Senator Moses Cleopas. He urged them to align fully with the ideology of the party’s leader, former Bayelsa State Governor, Henry Seriake Dickson, stressing that the party is built on service-oriented governance and people-focused leadership.

Cleopas described the NDC as a growing political platform for Nigerians seeking credible leadership and good governance, while warning that the road to political success would be competitive and demanding. He insisted that members must be fully committed and prepared for political engagement ahead of future elections.

He further praised Okoya, describing him as disciplined, intelligent, and incorruptible, adding that his experience in public administration reflects the values the party intends to promote.

Speaking on his defection, Okoya said he joined the NDC after resigning from the PDP and carefully reviewing other political options. He noted that the party’s ideology aligns with his belief in public service and development-driven governance, adding that the NDC’s vision ahead of the 2027 general elections influenced his decision.

Also speaking, Leghemo pledged to work with other members to strengthen the party’s structure in Bayelsa State, promising to commit resources and energy toward building a stronger opposition platform.

The NDC, which received its certificate of registration only a few months ago, has continued to attract notable politicians nationwide. The party currently counts among its growing ranks former Labour Party presidential candidate and ex-Anambra State governor Peter Obi, as well as members of the Obidient Movement, and former Kano State governor and presidential candidate Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso, among other political actors across the country.