The All Progressives Congress (APC) in Bayelsa State has suspended several prominent members, including Senator Heineken Lokpobiri, Minister of State for Petroleum, and David Lyon, the party’s 2019 governorship candidate. This action follows accusations of anti-party activities and factionalism within the party at the state level.
The suspensions were announced by the APC executives in the Ekeremor and Southern Ijaw Local Government Areas. Other individuals suspended include Peres Biewari (Commissioner for Lands and Survey), Jonathan Amos (former state party chairman), Godbless Diriwari (ex-officio member of the national executive), and several local leaders such as Omiebi Fuoebi and Sabi Morgan.
Mitin Eniekenemi, Chairman of the APC in Ekeremor LGA, confirmed that the suspensions were based on findings from an internal disciplinary committee operating under Article 21.3(1) of the APC Constitution.
However, Ogeibiri Orubebemienkumor, a former Deputy Chairman of the party in the state, criticized the suspensions as “laughable” and “null and void.” He referenced a valid court order that nullified the party’s congresses in 2021, asserting that the current APC leadership lacks legitimacy and that the suspensions are contemptuous of that order.
Another party member, Alex Blankson, echoed these sentiments, stating that the individuals involved do not have the authority to convene meetings or impose suspensions due to the ongoing court proceedings. He urged the National Working Committee of the APC to establish an acting committee to restore order within the Bayelsa State chapter of the party.
The situation continues to unfold, highlighting the internal conflicts and legal challenges facing the APC in Bayelsa.