Members of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Bayelsa, led by Governor Douye Diri, on Tuesday endorsed President Bola Tinubu’s re-election bid for 2027.

The endorsement followed a stakeholders’ meeting convened by the governor at the Chief DSP Alamieyeseigha Banquet Hall, Yenagoa.

The senator representing Bayelsa Central, Konbowei Benson, moved the motion, which was seconded by former deputy governor and ex-speaker, Peremobowei Ebebi.

Key stakeholders present included APC caretaker chairman Dennis Otiotio, Senator representing Bayelsa East Benson Agadaga, and Minister of State for Petroleum Resources Heineken Lokpobiri.

Others were NDDC managing director Sam Ogbuku, Niger Delta Basin Development Authority managing director Ebitimi Amgbare, and APC National Working Committee ex officio member Godbless Diriware.

It was the first expanded meeting convened by Mr Diri since he became Bayelsa APC leader in October 2025.

Addressing members, Mr Diri said the party had resolved to work as one family to secure Mr Tinubu’s second term.

He urged members to embrace forgiveness, humility, and unity and to reject bitterness and divisive politics for peace and development.

Mr Diri also advised aspirants to suspend their ambitions, stressing the need for consultation and adherence to party rules ahead of the next election.

“Here we are today as one big APC family. Let us truly be progressives and appreciate the old members for receiving us.

“Whatever position you want to contest for, please put it on hold for now. Our priority is ensuring President Tinubu returns for a second term,” the governor said.

In brief remarks, Mr Lokpobiri said the Bayelsa APC was now united, with a clear objective of winning all elective offices in 2027.

Speaker Abraham Ingobere, former governorship candidate David Lyon, and Ebitimi Amgbare praised Mr Diri’s maturity and inclusive leadership.

They said his leadership style would strengthen unity and enhance the party’s electoral success.

Caretaker chairman Otiotio commended Mr Diri for uniting previously fragmented party structures.

He said the meeting also aimed to mobilise members for the party’s electronic registration exercise to capture genuine voters. 

(NAN)