The Bayelsa State Chapter of the All Progressives Congress (APC) held its Expanded State Executive Committee meeting on Saturday, April 5, 2025, at the party’s secretariat in Yenagoa. The meeting, presided over by the State Chairman, Dr. Dennis Otiotio, brought together serving and former political offices holders, party executives, and a wide array of loyal party members.
The meeting focused on fostering unity within the party and addressing internal disagreements. After several hours of deliberation, members unanimously agreed to prioritize party interest over individual concerns. To this end, a Peace and Reconciliation Committee was constituted to address grievances and work towards a more unified party structure.
The newly inaugurated committee is chaired by Prince Ebitimi Amgbari, with Hon. Alfred Egba appointed as secretary. Other members of the committee include Hon. Joseph Fafi, Mrs. Gloria Izonfuo, Hon. Selekaye Ben, Prof. Mrs. Ongoebi Etebu, Chief Douglas Awudulu, Hon. Godbless Diriwari, and Engr. Alabo Martins.
In a major resolution, the committee urged the immediate withdrawal of all intra-party court cases pending before the Bayelsa State High Court. These cases, filed by the Southern Ijaw and Ekeremor Local Government Area Chairmen of the APC, concern the suspension of certain senior party members. The withdrawal of these suits is seen as a vital step towards reconciliation and internal healing.
Furthering its commitment to reform, the party also established a five-member Constitution Drifting Committee, tasked with reviewing and updating the party’s constitution to reflect contemporary political realities and improve internal governance structures.
The Constitution Review Committee will be led by Hon. Preye Oseke as Chairman, with Barr. Stanley Damabidei serving as Co-Chairman. The secretary of the committee is Barr. Efieseimokumo Bipeledei, while Hon. Selekaye Ben and Barr. Doumo Ogbomani are also included as members.
During the meeting, the party’s leadership expressed strong support for President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, passing a unanimous vote of confidence in his administration. Citing his “revolutionary and transformational leadership,” the members commended President Tinubu for his performance since assuming office and highlighted several initiatives they say have had a positive impact on the country.
The party also acknowledged President Tinubu’s recognition of Bayelsa State in federal appointments. Specific mention was made of Dr. Samuel Ogbuku, Managing Director and CEO of the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC), and Senator Henekein Lokpobiri, Minister of State for Petroleum. These appointments, the party stated, reflect the President’s inclusiveness and appreciation for the contributions of Bayelsans to national development.
Further votes of confidence were extended to other national and state leaders within the APC. Senate President Godswill Akpabio, as well as Bayelsa APC Chairman Dr. Dennis Otiotio, received the party’s full backing for their leadership. Chief Timipre Sylva, a former Minister of State for Petroleum and influential APC leader in Bayelsa, was also commended for his efforts in keeping the party united and strong in the state.
In concluding the meeting, party members reaffirmed their support for President Tinubu’s “Renewed Hope” agenda. They prayed for his continued good health and that of his family and declared their endorsement for his second-term bid, citing his administration’s dedication to transparency, unity, and national development.
The communique from the meeting was jointly signed by Dr. Dennis Otiotio, APC Bayelsa State Chairman, and Hon. Ebipadei Basil Fekoweimo, the State Secretary.
