Chief Barr. S. Smooth Commends Governor Douye Diri’s Move to APC, Urges Unity and Caution Against Betrayal
By Passman Akpos
Yenagoa, Bayelsa State – Prominent Niger Delta activist and musician, Chief Barrister S. Smooth, has applauded Governor Douye Diri for his recent defection to the All Progressives Congress (APC), describing the move as “a wise and timely decision” that aligns with the broader goal of development and unity in Bayelsa State.
In a public statement released on Tuesday, Chief S. Smooth congratulated Governor Diri for his “strategic realignment,” noting that politics should be centered on progress, not personal interest. According to him, the governor’s decision reflects a commitment to harnessing new opportunities for Bayelsa’s growth.
> “Once again, let me congratulate our amiable Governor, Chief Senator Douye Diri, on his new decision to align with the All Progressives Congress (APC). To me, this is a wise and timely move. After all, politics is about bringing development, not just pursuing selfish interests, but prioritizing the welfare and progress of the people,” he said.
Chief S. Smooth further emphasized that joining the APC comes with a responsibility to foster unity within the party, rather than deepen existing divisions. He advised Governor Diri to use his leadership position to mend cracks and bring together all factions for the collective good of Bayelsa and the Ijaw Nation.
> “By joining the new party, you are equally given a more tasking job to help unite the party and its internal crisis, and not to help divide the cracks already in place,” he cautioned.
The Ijaw musician also warned against the dangers of political betrayal, referencing the late former Governor Diepreye Alamieyeseigha, whose political downfall he described as a “betrayal karma” that has haunted Bayelsa’s progress for years.
> “We cannot afford to incur another burden of sin on the soul of the Ijaw Nation, for that would be catastrophic. I pray God will give you the wisdom not to join forces with those who are willing to destroy our Ijaw sons to have their way,” he added.
Chief S. Smooth also expressed concern about individuals who, according to him, move from office to office spreading misinformation and sabotaging genuine efforts toward Ijaw unity. He lamented that many people prioritize personal gain over the collective advancement of their people.
> “Some are helping to build while others are helping to destroy for their immediate stomachs that never seem to be satisfied,” he lamented.
In his concluding remarks, Chief S. Smooth urged Ijaw leaders, including Governor Diri, to be wary of “bad followers” and to prioritize truth and integrity over hypocrisy.
> “My advice to our dear Governor Sen. Douye Diri: don’t listen to hypocrisy, but do the right thing. Call the party together to rebuild and not to destroy. I remain Chief Barrister S. Smooth, the Voice of the People,” he declared.
Governor Douye Diri’s defection to the APC has continued to generate widespread reactions across the political landscape of Bayelsa State, with many observers describing it as a move that could reshape the state’s political future.
