2027: Bayelsa APC Pledges Full Support for Tinubu’s Second Term

By: Aremu Toyeebaht

The Bayelsa State chapter of the All Progressives Congress (APC) has officially endorsed President Bola Tinubu for a second term in the 2027 general election. The endorsement was announced on Tuesday at the party’s 12th Expanded Stakeholders’ Meeting in Yenagoa.

The meeting saw the participation of members of the APC National Working Committee, led by Deputy National Chairman (South) Chief Emma Eneukwu, representing National Chairman Prof. Nentawe Yilwatda. However, the absence of two prominent party figures—Minister of State for Petroleum Resources, Senator Heineken Lokpobiri, and the party’s 2019 governorship candidate, Chief David Lyon—raised questions about the state of party unity in Bayelsa.

Ambassador Philip Ikrusi moved the motion to endorse Tinubu, which was seconded by former House of Representatives member Preye Oseke. “I raise this motion in recognition of the outstanding leadership and vision that President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has demonstrated since assuming office in 2023,” Ikrusi said.

He further praised the president’s “bold reforms, rekindled hope, promotion of national unity, strengthening of democratic institutions, and the appointment of Bayelsa indigenes into key positions.”

The party also pledged to mobilise its members, structures, and resources across all wards and local government areas in Bayelsa to secure a “resounding victory” for Tinubu in the 2027 election.

Commenting on the absence of Lokpobiri and Lyon, former governor and Minister of State for Petroleum Resources, Chief Timipre Sylva, expressed regret, noting that their participation would have demonstrated a united front. “The only thing we are lacking is the support of the national leadership. If we have the support, this party is stronger than any other party in the state,” Sylva said, adding that 2027 would be “a done deal” if the state chapter received the needed backing.

The endorsement signals APC’s early mobilisation in Bayelsa, though observers suggest that reconciling differences among top figures will be critical for presenting a united front ahead of the 2027 polls.

(PUNCH)