According to the Bayelsa APC Professionals and Stakeholders Group, party members no longer have faith in Chief Timipre Sylva, their party's nominee for governor, and his ability to win the upcoming state election.A major shift in the party's political position was revealed by a powerful group within the All Progressives Congress (APC) on Tuesday, in anticipation of the November 11, 2023, Bayelsa State governorship election.
This was announced in a statement that was signed by Dr. Emmanuel Akpodigha, the group secretary general, and noted that the decision was made after much thought and worry for the future of our dear state.
Part of the statement says, "We would like to notify the public, our party members, and the good people of Bayelsa that we have completely lost faith in our party's governorship candidate, Chief Timipre Sylva, and his ability to win the upcoming governorship election in our state. Instead, we have chosen to support Senator Douye Diri, the incumbent governor of our state, who is also the candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP).
"This decision has not been made hastily; rather, it is the product of serious thought and a genuine concern for the future of our dear state. as interested parties who have actively participated in Bayelsa politics.
We've been keeping a careful eye on the goings-on within our party, and we're growing more and more discouraged with the way our people—and particularly the APC candidate, Chief Timipre Sylva—have been responding to his nomination.
The Bayelsa APC Professionals and Stakeholders Group is of the opinion that our state should be led by visionary, powerful individuals who put the welfare and advancement of our citizens first. Although we have historically supported the APC, the welfare and advancement of Bayelsa State has always been our first priority.
"Unfortunately, we can no longer overlook Chief Timipre Sylva's polarizing politics and dubious leadership qualities, which have undermined our trust in his capacity to offer the guidance our state requires at this crucial time.
On the other hand, since Senator Douye Diri assumed office, we have been pleased with his record and his demonstrated leadership abilities. We are convinced of his abilities to bring our state together and lead it toward a better future because we feel that his vision for Bayelsa is in line with the goals of our people.
In addition to endorsing Senator Douye Diri's campaign, our choice to back him demonstrates our dedication to the prosperity and welfare of the people of Bayelsa State. We kindly ask all of our fans, members, and well-intentioned Bayelsans to stand for Senator Duoye Diri and the PDP in the next governorship race.
The statement went on, "We think that this shift in our political stance is an important step in the right direction, and we remain committed to our shared vision of a better Bayelsa."