In a bold political development, Kenneth Okonkwo, a chieftain of the African Democratic Congress (ADC) and renowned Nollywood actor, has publicly urged the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to declare the governorship seat of Bayelsa State vacant following Governor Douye Diri’s resignation from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP).
During an expanded State Executive Council meeting held at the Government House in Yenagoa on Wednesday, Governor Diri announced his resignation from the PDP, citing “obvious reasons” without elaborating. The announcement was made in the presence of key political figures including the Speaker of the Bayelsa State House of Assembly, Abraham Ingobere, Deputy Speaker Michael Ogbere, and APGA minority leader Edward Brigidi, along with seven other lawmakers.
Kenneth Okonkwo reacted swiftly to the news, asserting that Diri’s resignation from the PDP effectively nullifies his mandate as governor, which was secured under the party’s platform. In a statement shared via social media, Okonkwo emphasized that the constitution does not support a governor remaining in office without party affiliation, and called on INEC to initiate the process of declaring the seat vacant and organizing a fresh election within 90 days.
“This is not just a political shift; it is a constitutional matter,” Okonkwo stated. “Governor Diri’s resignation from the PDP, without aligning with another party, renders his position untenable. INEC must act swiftly to uphold the integrity of our democratic institutions.”
The resignation has sparked widespread speculation that Governor Diri may be preparing to defect to the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC), although no official confirmation has been made. Political analysts are closely watching the unfolding situation, which could have significant implications for the balance of power in Bayelsa State and beyond.
INEC has yet to issue an official response to Okonkwo’s call, and legal experts are divided on whether a resignation from a political party automatically invalidates an elected official’s mandate. The situation remains fluid, with stakeholders across the political spectrum weighing in on the constitutional and electoral ramifications.