APC Takes Decisive Action Against Disloyal Members in Bayelsa, Including Prominent Figures

The All Progressives Congress (APC) has taken decisive action against several prominent members in Bayelsa State, including Senator Heineken Lokpobiri, the Minister of State for Petroleum Resources, and David Lyon, the party’s 2019 governorship candidate. These suspensions are part of a broader effort to address internal dissent and alleged support for rival parties.

At a press briefing in Yenagoa, APC leaders from various local governments announced the indefinite suspension of Lokpobiri and his associates. Mitin Eniekenemi Senator, Chairman of the APC in Ekeremor Local Government Area, stated that the decision was based on findings from a disciplinary committee convened under Article 21.3(i) of the APC Constitution (2022 as amended). "Senator Lokpobiri, along with his aides, has consistently undermined our party’s interests since he failed to secure the APC ticket in 2019," Senator remarked. He further alleged that Lokpobiri had fostered a separate party faction and urged supporters to file lawsuits against the APC.

In the recent 2023 Bayelsa gubernatorial race, Lokpobiri allegedly supported Governor Douye Diri of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), receiving backing from the PDP-led Bayelsa administration. This influence reportedly led to the appointment of Lokpobiri’s personal aide, Kharim Kumoko, as Commissioner for Power under Governor Diri.

Similarly, David Lyon and seven other members were suspended for conspiring against APC’s Abel Ebifemowei in the 2020 Bayelsa Central senatorial bye-election and later supporting PDP candidates in the 2023 governorship election. Ebikazi Gbefa, the APC Chairman for Southern Ijaw, highlighted that some members, including Lyon’s personal assistant Perepuighe Biewari, benefitted from the PDP administration through lucrative appointments.

As the APC looks ahead to the 2027 elections, these suspensions underscore the party’s resolve to strengthen its base and restore loyalty among grassroots members. "It is our resolve to rebuild this party and instill confidence in our members who have made remarkable sacrifices," Gbefa stated, noting that the disciplinary actions have been forwarded to the APC’s state executive council for formal ratification.