Bayelsa Deputy Governor Eyes Diri’s Seat as Dickson, Ewhrudjakpo Weigh ADC Move
By Passman Akpos
YENAGOA — Political tremors are rocking Bayelsa State as Deputy Governor Lawrence Ewhrudjakpo and former Governor Senator Seriake Dickson reportedly prepare to exit the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), insiders revealed yesterday.
The duo’s looming departure is said to stem from growing uncertainty within the PDP’s state leadership. While Dickson has remained a vocal critic of the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) in the Senate, Ewhrudjakpo has refused to follow Governor Duoye Diri, who defected to the APC on November 3.
Sources suggest that both men are exploring the African Democratic Congress (ADC) as a new political platform—Dickson to return to the Senate and Ewhrudjakpo to contest the governorship.
The political bond between the two men runs deep. As Dickson rounded off his second term as governor, he sponsored Ewhrudjakpo for the Senate and later influenced his selection as Diri’s running mate. Ewhrudjakpo’s ascent to the deputy governorship led to Dickson reclaiming the Senate seat through a by-election.
Despite Dickson’s advice against it, Diri proceeded with his defection to the APC, setting the stage for the current political standoff. The deputy governor has since approached the Federal High Court in Abuja to prevent the State Assembly from impeaching him over his refusal to join the APC.
At a recent State Executive Council meeting, Governor Diri attempted to quell tensions, stating that he would not coerce Ewhrudjakpo into APC membership and that dialogue would take precedence over confrontation.
Political insiders acknowledge that speculation about the pair’s defection holds some truth. A source within the Governor’s office revealed, “There is an atom of truth in the speculation that Ewhrudjakpo may join the ADC. Senator Dickson has links with the party and has allegedly recommended former PDP chieftains to become ADC executives.”
However, the source noted that while the ADC may struggle to win in most local government areas, Dickson possesses the structure, connections, and resources to secure a senatorial victory should he defect.
An associate of Governor Diri weighed in on the political dynamics: “Every politician wants to advance their career. Ewhrudjakpo may eventually leave PDP, but ADC is not a viable option for most. Dickson, however, could make it work given his influence.”
Meanwhile, a media aide to the deputy governor, Doubara Otasi, maintained that he was unaware of Ewhrudjakpo’s next move.
As Bayelsa’s political chessboard continues to shift, all eyes are on Ewhrudjakpo and Dickson—two key players whose next steps could redefine the state’s political landscape ahead of the 2027 elections.
