In a significant move, the All Progressives Congress (APC) has suspended Senator Heineken Lokpobiri, the Minister of State for Petroleum Resources, along with David Lyon, the party’s 2019 governorship candidate in Bayelsa State, and eight other key members. This decision was announced on October 11, 2024, amid allegations of anti-party activities that have raised concerns about party unity and discipline.
Reasons for Suspension
The suspensions stem from findings by the APC’s disciplinary committee, which accused Lokpobiri and his supporters of undermining the party’s interests since the 2019 governorship election. According to Mitin Eniekenemi, the APC Chairman for Ekeremor Local Government Area, Lokpobiri led factions within the party and collaborated with the opposition Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) during the 2023 gubernatorial elections.
Eniekenemi stated that Lokpobiri openly supported Governor Douye Diri of the PDP, receiving appointments and contracts in return for his allegiance. He also alleged that Lokpobiri’s personal aide, Kharim Kumoko, who was appointed as Commissioner for Power in Bayelsa State, was part of this arrangement.
List of Suspended Members
The suspensions extend beyond Lokpobiri and Lyon to include:
- Kharim Kumoko – Commissioner for Power
- Peres Biewari – Commissioner for Lands and Survey
- Jothan Amos– Former APC State Chairman
- Godbless Diriwari – Ex-officio member of the National Executive Council
- Sabi Morgan – Southern Ijaw APC Youth Leader
- Additional local party executives from Southern Ijaw LGA
This sweeping action reflects a concerted effort to address perceived disloyalty within the party ranks as it prepares for future electoral challenges.
Internal Party Dynamics
The decision to suspend these prominent figures has sparked debates within the APC regarding internal discipline and loyalty. Critics argue that such measures may further exacerbate divisions within the party, especially given Lokpobiri’s high-profile position as a minister.
In a separate statement, Ebikazi Gbefa, Chairman of the APC in Southern Ijaw LGA, reiterated that Lyon and other suspended members had conspired against APC candidates in previous elections. He emphasised that these actions were detrimental to the party’s unity and electoral prospects.
Moving Forward
The APC leadership has referred these suspensions to the state executive council for ratification. As tensions rise within the party, there is an urgent need for reconciliation efforts to restore unity ahead of upcoming elections.The suspension of Senator Heineken Lokpobiri, David Lyon, and eight others underscores ongoing struggles within the APC in Bayelsa State. As the party navigates these challenges, it faces critical decisions about its direction and cohesion. The coming weeks will be pivotal in determining how effectively the APC can address internal divisions while preparing for future electoral contests.
By Joseph Johnston,
Youth Editor,
Egogonews Hub
