Bayelsa State Governor, Douye Diri, has explained that his decision to leave the Peoples’ Democratic Party (PDP) is in the best interest of the State.

Speaking during the 14th annual Bayelsa State Thanksgiving on Sunday at Ecumenical Centre at Igbogene, Yenagoa, Governor Diri described politics as an avenue for service and contribution to societal development.

Diri, who is expected to formally join the All Progressives Congress (APC) on Monday, said the people of Bayelsa have every reason to thank God for the prevailing peace and security in the state.

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The governor emphasised the need for unity, urging politicians to shun bitter politics of division and instead, work together to develop the state and the nation.

He said, “Some of you may not know now but with time, you will come and thank me. Somebody must take the decision and it’s incumbent on me to take that decision, and I have taken it, for the interest of the state of Bayelsa.”

Also speaking, the Minister of State for Petroleum Resources, Oil, Senator Heineken Lokpobiri, reminded politicians to weigh the consequences before taking decisions, stating that the Governor’s alignment to the centre was for the good of the state.

The Minister warned against disloyalty to the Governor, in what appeared to be veiled jab at the Deputy Governor, who has chosen to remain in the PDP.

On her part, the Head of the Civil Service of the Federation, Dame Didi Walson-Jack, said Bayelsa had every reason to thank God for His blessings upon the State.

In his sermon, Founder of the Redeemed Evangelical Mission, Bishop Mike Okonkwo, quoting from Psalm 100, verses 1 to 5, stressed the importance of Thanksgiving to God.

Meanwhile, arrangements have been concluded for Governor Douye Diri’s formal defection to the APC on Monday, with a grand reception scheduled to hold at the Samson Siasia Sports Complex in Yenagoa, the state capital.