In a notable political realignment, former federal legislator Ben Murray-Bruce, who once represented Bayelsa East Senatorial District, has formally left the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) to embrace the All Progressives Congress (APC). His defection is seen as part of a broader trend of power shifting in Bayelsa State. In a statement personally signed and published on his Facebook page on Wednesday, Murray-Bruce declared his departure from the PDP and entrance into the ruling party. He commended President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration, citing its bold reforms and direction for Nigeria’s future. Murray-Bruce said he has known Tinubu since 1998 and appealed to Nigerians to be patient with the “painful but necessary” steps being taken by the government, affirming that he is joining the APC “not for politics, but for progress.” He lauded the current government for its deregulation of the fuel sector, restructuring of the Central Bank, and infrastructure projects across roads, ports, housing, and airports. These, he argued, are the building blocks of Nigeria’s renewed growth and credibility. Murray-Bruce further emphasized that although reforms may inflict short-term hardships, they are essential for long-term prosperity. He concluded by predicting that Nigeria will record “phenomenal growth” if President Tinubu’s full eight-year vision is realized. His defection aligns with similar moves in the state. Bayelsa Governor Douye Diri has reportedly also resigned from the PDP.
