By Amgbare Ekaunkumo, Yenagoa
A former Senior Special Assistant on Domestic Matters and Social Events to ex-President Goodluck Jonathan, Hon. Waripamo-Owei Dudafa, has officially resigned from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and joined the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Bayelsa State.
Dudafa, who previously served as a member of the Bayelsa State House of Assembly, announced his defection in a statement issued to journalists in Yenagoa, the state capital, on Saturday, October 18, 2025.
In a resignation letter addressed to the PDP Chairman of Southern Opokuma/Ayibabiri Ward 8 in Kolokuma-Opokuma Local Government Area, Dudafa expressed appreciation to the PDP for the opportunities it provided him over the past 25 years. He acknowledged that his political growth—from serving as a state legislator between 2003 and 2007 to holding national appointments—was largely shaped by the party.
Describing his decision as “difficult but necessary,” Dudafa said he chose to leave the PDP to align with Governor Douye Diri’s developmental vision for a more prosperous Bayelsa.
“My decision to join the APC is driven by my commitment to the progress of Bayelsa and Nigeria as a whole,” Dudafa stated. “This move marks a new chapter of service and dedication to the people.”
Until his defection, Dudafa served as an elected delegate representing Kolokuma-Opokuma Local Government Area at the PDP’s forthcoming National Convention slated for November 14, 2025.
Despite his switch to the APC, the former presidential aide urged his supporters to remain loyal to Governor Diri and the Prosperity Government, expressing confidence in the governor’s leadership and commitment to advancing the welfare of Bayelsans.
Political analysts in Bayelsa have described the defection as a significant political development, suggesting that Dudafa’s entry into the APC could strengthen the party’s structure and influence in the state ahead of future elections.
Dudafa’s defection adds to the growing list of high-profile political realignments in Bayelsa, highlighting the state’s shifting political dynamics as both major parties—PDP and APC—intensify efforts to consolidate their support bases.
The former lawmaker reaffirmed his readiness to work with APC leaders to advance policies that promote unity, development, and economic growth in Bayelsa.
“My focus remains service to the people and contributing to a Bayelsa where opportunities and prosperity are accessible to all,” he added.
Observers note that Dudafa’s move could influence grassroots political mobilization, particularly in the Kolokuma-Opokuma area, where he maintains strong political connections.
