The Bayelsa State Elders Forum of the All Progressives Congress (APC) has accused the faction of the Minister of State for Petroleum (Oil), Senator Heineken Lokpobiri, of orchestrating a smear campaign against former Governor and party leader, Chief Timipre Sylva.
In a statement signed by the Forum’s Secretary, Chief Clarkson Ayebaepreye, the elders described the recent wave of allegations linking Sylva to activities against President Bola Tinubu’s administration as “false, malicious, and politically motivated.”
According to the Forum, findings from a discreet fact-finding committee revealed that the accusations were being sponsored by a “small internal faction” in collaboration with external forces aiming to destabilize the Bayelsa APC.
“It is now evident that the faction loyal to Senator Heineken Lokpobiri has made it its singular mission to undermine Chief Sylva and sow division within the party rather than strengthen its structure,” the statement read.
The elders expressed disappointment that despite his ministerial position, Lokpobiri had allegedly used his influence to create internal hostilities rather than promote unity. They urged President Tinubu to caution him, warning that the continued spread of falsehoods could damage the APC’s image in Bayelsa and across the country.
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The Forum also advised Bayelsa State Governor, Senator Douye Diri, to remain vigilant in his recent political engagements with APC members, urging him not to be drawn into factional intrigues.
Reaffirming their loyalty to President Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda, the elders called for unity, discipline, and cooperation within the APC, stressing that “political relevance is earned through service, not sabotage.”
