Bayelsa APC Endorses Tinubu for 2027, But Key Absences Spark Unity Concerns

The Bayelsa State chapter of the All Progressives Congress (APC) has endorsed President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for a second term in the 2027 general elections. However, the absence of two major party figures — Minister of State for Petroleum (Oil), Senator Heineken Lokpobiri, and 2019 governorship candidate, Chief David Lyon — has fueled fresh questions about internal unity.

The endorsement was made on Tuesday during the APC’s 12th Expanded Stakeholders’ Meeting in Yenagoa, attended by members of the party’s National Working Committee (NWC), led by Deputy National Chairman (South), Chief Emma Eneukwu, who represented the National Chairman, Prof. Nentawe Yilwatda.

Ambassador Philip Ikrusi moved the motion for Tinubu’s endorsement, seconded by former House of Representatives member Preye Oseke, citing the president’s “bold reforms, rekindled hope, promotion of unity, strengthening of democratic institutions, and inclusion of Bayelsa indigenes in key positions.”

The party vowed to mobilize structures, members, and resources across the state to secure victory for Tinubu in 2027.

Former governor and Minister of State for Petroleum Resources, Chief Timipre Sylva, however, expressed disappointment at the absence of Lokpobiri and Lyon, saying their presence would have projected a united front. He insisted that with stronger backing from the national leadership, APC could defeat the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Bayelsa.

The absences have reignited concerns about lingering rifts within the Bayelsa APC. Last year, Sylva’s camp clashed with those of Lokpobiri and Lyon, leading to the suspension of both alongside former House Speaker Werinipre Seibarugu and their allies. Though the suspensions were later halted, questions remain over the party’s leadership tussle ahead of the 2027 elections.

Adding to the intrigue, sources revealed that Lokpobiri had initially scheduled Tuesday’s meeting, making his no-show particularly striking. Attempts to reach his press secretary, Nneamaka Okafor, and David Lyon for comments were unsuccessful.

Meanwhile, key speakers at the meeting, including NDDC Managing Director, Dr. Samuel Ogbuku, and Niger Delta Basin Development Authority boss, Prince Ebitimi Amgbare, stressed the need for reconciliation and unity to strengthen the APC’s chances in Bayelsa.

APC State Chairman, Dr. Dennis Otiotio, commended President Tinubu for appointments and projects benefiting Bayelsa, while acknowledging contributions from Sylva and Ogbuku to party growth.

Despite the absences, the meeting drew notable figures such as APC National Secretary, Senator Ajibola Basiru; National Vice Chairman (South-South), Victor Giadom; former Deputy Governor, Peremobowei Ebebi; and other stakeholders.