PDP Civil War: Pro-Wike Faction Moves To Expel Gov Diri Over Loyalist’s Arrest

Reigneth, a prominent social media influencer and political activist, was reportedly arrested over a petition concerning a post in which she accused Governor Diri of orchestrating the shooting incident during the inauguration of the NEW Associates, a pro-Wike political group, held last month.

In a statement released by the group’s acting Publicity Secretary, Derri Alasuote Wright, the faction strongly condemned Reigneth’s arrest, describing it as an infringement on her rights. They demanded her immediate release and warned of escalating actions if their call is ignored.

“We will not remain silent while the fundamental rights of our members — and indeed, all Bayelsans — are trampled upon,” the statement read. “Governor Diri must reverse this injustice. If Miss Awudumu is not released promptly, we will be forced to consider further steps, including exploring the possibility of expelling him from the PDP.”

The faction alleged that the arrest was politically driven, pointing to Reigneth’s leadership role as Director General of the NEW Media Team within the NEW Associates, a grassroots political body backing President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and aligned with Wike.

They also accused the Diri-led administration of witch-hunting loyalists of the group and working to destabilize the PDP in Bayelsa, claiming the governor is preparing to defect to the All Progressives Congress (APC).

“Governor Diri’s actions, including this recent arrest, the sacking of 27 aides from Bayelsa East, and the earlier detention of social commentator John Idumange, paint a clear picture of authoritarianism and intolerance for dissent,” the statement added.

The group called on civil society organisations, human rights groups, and the general public to stand in solidarity with them in demanding Reigneth’s release and the protection of democratic principles in Bayelsa State.