Waripamo-Owei Dudafa joins APC after leaving PDP, citing internal crisis, disunity, and leadership failure that hindered progress within the opposition party.
Former presidential aide Dr. Waripamo-Owei Dudafa has officially dumped the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and joined the All Progressives Congress (APC), citing disunity, internal conflicts, and a leadership crisis that have crippled the PDP’s progress.
The announcement marks a significant development in Bayelsa politics, as Waripamo-Owei Dudafa joins APC to pursue what he described as a more stable and purposeful political path.
In a statement released in Yenagoa, the Bayelsa State capital, Dudafa explained that his decision followed weeks of personal reflection and extensive consultations with his family, close associates, and supporters.
His resignation letter was formally submitted to the PDP chairman of Southern Opokuma/Ayibabiri Ward 8 in Kolokuma/Opokuma Local Government Area.
The former Bayelsa State House of Assembly member and ex-aide to former President Goodluck Jonathan said his decision was not taken lightly, as he had served the PDP with loyalty and commitment for many years.
However, he lamented that the party had lost direction and unity due to unresolved leadership disputes and internal divisions.
“Throughout my political journey with the PDP, I remained committed to its founding ideals and objectives,” Dudafa said.
“Unfortunately, the persistent infighting and lack of discipline within the party have created a toxic environment that makes it impossible to function effectively.”
According to him, the ongoing PDP leadership crisis at the national level has weakened the party’s credibility and alienated many dedicated members.
He added that the absence of unity and vision within the opposition party has made it difficult to provide constructive leadership or serve the people effectively.
“Instead of rebuilding trust and strengthening our foundation, the PDP continues to battle unresolved internal disputes that erode confidence.
“It has become increasingly clear that remaining within such an environment will not allow me to fulfil my political mission,” he stated.
Dudafa emphasized that his decision to leave the PDP was reached after consulting political allies and family members who understood his frustration with the party’s stagnant leadership structure.
“It was not an impulsive move,” he explained. “It came from deep reflection and a firm belief that progress requires change.”
Confirming his defection, Waripamo-Owei Dudafa joins APC, which he described as a party that aligns more closely with his personal vision of stability, progress, and national unity.
He said the APC’s structure offers a better platform to contribute meaningfully to the development of Bayelsa State and Nigeria at large.
“The APC, despite its challenges, remains a party of action and reform. It provides the opportunity to serve the people through a more coordinated and visionary approach to governance,” he said.
Observers say that Waripamo-Owei Dudafa joins APC at a politically strategic time when several PDP members across the country are considering new alignments ahead of the 2027 general elections.
His defection, they note, could strengthen the APC’s position in Bayelsa, a state long considered a PDP stronghold.
Political analysts believe Dudafa’s decision is not only personal but symbolic of a broader trend of disillusionment among opposition politicians who feel sidelined by the PDP’s prolonged internal crisis.
As a long-time ally of former President Jonathan, Dudafa’s move carries both emotional and political weight within the Niger Delta region.
He called on his supporters to remain calm, united, and focused on positive transformation under his new political platform.
“This new chapter is not about abandoning old friends,” he assured, “but about realigning with a movement that truly prioritizes development, inclusion, and good governance.”
Dudafa expressed gratitude to those who supported him throughout his political journey and reaffirmed his dedication to serving the people.
He pledged to use his position within the All Progressives Congress to advocate for policies that promote peace, development, and opportunities for young people in Bayelsa and across Nigeria.
“I remain committed to the principles of democracy, accountability, and people-driven governance. My decision to join the APC is rooted in a desire to build a stronger and more united Nigeria,” he concluded.
As Waripamo-Owei Dudafa joins APC, political watchers predict that his defection could trigger a ripple effect, encouraging other notable PDP members in Bayelsa to reconsider their allegiance.
His influence, grassroots reach, and political experience could play a decisive role in reshaping the power dynamics within the state ahead of the next election cycle.
Dudafa’s entry into the APC is expected to boost the ruling party’s image in the Niger Delta and strengthen its organizational base in a region long dominated by the PDP.
Many observers see his move as a calculated step toward greater political influence and renewed commitment to service delivery.
The defection of Waripamo-Owei Dudafa joins APC also highlights the fluid nature of Nigerian politics, where ideology often gives way to pragmatism and strategic repositioning.
As he begins this new journey, Dudafa has vowed to uphold integrity, bridge divides, and work with stakeholders across party lines to achieve shared development goals.
With his decision now public, attention has turned to how the APC leadership in Bayelsa will integrate him into the party structure and harness his experience for strategic advantage.
For Dudafa, the future now lies in building partnerships that transcend political rivalry and focus on delivering tangible benefits to the people.
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