The Senator representing Bayelsa Central Senatorial District, Konbowei Benson, has joined the growing number of Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) members in Bayelsa State resigning from the party.

His exit follows that of Governor Douye Diri, members of the State Executive Council, lawmakers, and all eight local government chairmen.

In a letter to the Senate President, Godswill Akpabio, Senator Benson attributed his decision to the lingering leadership crisis and internal divisions within the PDP.

He stated that after due consultation with his family, associates, and political leaders, he had resolved to follow Governor Diri in resigning from the party.

“In coming to this decision, I have taken a deep look at the protracted leadership crisis and the division that have resulted from the competition for power within the PDP, especially at the national level,” he said.

“I have lost hope in the capacity of the PDP to play its role as a political party. I am therefore left with no option but to resign my membership and move to the All Progressives Congress (APC). I am grateful to the President of the Senate for his uncommon leadership and support.”

Meanwhile, the Association of Local Governments of Nigeria (ALGON), Bayelsa State chapter, has thrown its weight behind Governor Diri’s resignation from the PDP.

Speaking at a press conference in Yenagoa, the Chairman of Kolokuma/Opokuma Local Government Area, Hon. Lelei Tariye Isaac, said the local government chairmen were united in their decision to stand with the governor.

“We were elected on the platform of the PDP, but today, following the resignation of our leader, Governor Douye Diri, we, the Chairmen, Vice Chairmen, Councillors, and other appointees of the Local Government Areas, hereby resign our membership of the PDP,” he said.

Other council chairmen present at the briefing included Hon. David Alagoa (Nembe), Hon. Target Isaiah Segibo (Southern Ijaw), Hon. Bulodisiye Ndiwari (Yenagoa), Hon. Isaac Onniye (Ekeremor), and Hon. Golden Jeremiah (Ogbia).

Hon. Alice Allen Tangi (Sagbama) and Hon. Lucky Febo (Brass) were, however, unavoidably absent.