The All Progressives Congress has taken action against several party members in Bayelsa State for alleged anti-party activities. This includes the suspension of the Minister of State, Petroleum Resources (Oil), Senator Heineken Lokpobiri, and the party’s 2019 governorship candidate, David Lyon. Other suspended individuals include state commissioners, former party executives, and youth leaders. The suspensions were announced separately by different APC officials in Yenagoa, the state capital.
The party cited violations of its constitution and accused the suspended members of engaging in anti-party activities, including supporting rival political parties and factions within the APC. It was alleged that Lokpobiri and his followers had taken actions against the party’s interests since the 2019 governorship election, leading to their suspension.
Additionally, Chief David Lyon and seven others were suspended in a separate announcement for similar reasons. They were accused of working against the APC candidate in a senatorial bye-election and openly supporting the opposition party in the 2023 governorship election. Some of the suspended members were said to have been rewarded with contracts and appointments by the opposing party.
Both groups of suspended members have had their cases referred to the state executive council for further review and ratification. They declined to answer any questions from journalists following the announcements. The party emphasized its commitment to rebuilding and strengthening its grassroots support in preparation for future elections.