2027: MacIver declares governorship ambition on PDP platform in Bayelsa
Joshua MacIver Seeks PDP Nomination for Bayelsa Governorship
Joshua MacIver has officially announced his candidacy for the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) governorship ticket in Bayelsa State for the upcoming November 2027 off-cycle election. He conveyed this intention in a letter to the Bayelsa State PDP State Working Committee.
In his letter, MacIver emphasized the importance of competence and experience in the selection of candidates, arguing that these qualities should take precedence over zoning considerations. “I firmly believe that the people of Bayelsa State deserve a leader who prioritises effectiveness, the welfare of our people, and the development of our state,” he stated.
As part of his efforts to strengthen the PDP in the region, MacIver pledged to contribute N70 million monthly to the party starting in August 2026. This commitment reflects his dedication to rebuilding and repositioning the PDP in Bayelsa.
MacIver, who previously served as the deputy governorship candidate for the All Progressives Congress (APC) in the 2023 election, recently switched his allegiance to the PDP. He explained that his departure from the APC was prompted by feelings of sidelining from the party, particularly following Governor Douye Diri’s switch from the PDP to the APC.
Before his tenure with the APC, MacIver held the position of chairman of the Southern Ijaw Local Government Area under the PDP. He later became the running mate to former governor Timipre Sylva during the last election.
In April 2026, during his reception into the PDP, MacIver predicted that more discontented APC members would follow his lead in defecting to the PDP. He remarked on the challenges faced by APC members in the recent election and described the ongoing division within the party. “The last election, we know what we passed through to make sure we win that election,” he said.
MacIver also clarified that the APC has factions, revealing that a significant majority—about 95% of members—have felt abandoned by Governor Diri’s leadership. He suggested that a substantial number of these members would consider aligning with the PDP in the near future.
