Sylva’s Exit Won’t Weaken APC In Bayelsa, We’ll Deliver Tinubu, Others In 2027 – Nabena

A former Deputy National Publicity Secretary of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Hon. Yekini Nabena, has said the ruling party remains strong and united in Bayelsa State despite the resignation of former Governor and ex-Minister of State for Petroleum Resources, Chief Timipre Sylva.

Nabena declared that the APC structure in the state remains intact and capable of winning future elections, including securing victory for President Bola Ahmed Tinubu in the 2027 presidential election.

Sylva had on Monday announced his resignation from the APC, citing what he described as the party’s departure from the ideals upon which it was founded.

Reacting to the development in a statement issued on Wednesday in Abuja, Nabena said he was speaking on behalf of what he described as about 90 per cent of APC members and stakeholders in Bayelsa State.

According to him, while Sylva’s departure is regrettable, the majority of party members in the state have resolved to remain in the APC and continue working for its success.

He stated that the party had built a solid political structure in Bayelsa over the years and would not abandon it because of the exit of one individual, regardless of his contributions.

“We will remain in APC where we have invested, sacrificed and built a solid political structure. We will work hard to deliver all our candidates, from President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s re-election bid in 2027 to all other APC candidates,” Nabena said.

The APC chieftain acknowledged Sylva’s role in building the party and described his resignation as a painful development, noting that the former governor had taken the decision after consultations with family members, associates and supporters.

He, however, stressed that APC in Bayelsa had evolved into a formidable political institution that is bigger than any single individual.

Nabena maintained that the challenges facing the country were more related to leadership than political party platforms, arguing that politicians often move across parties without fundamentally changing the political landscape.

“We cannot abandon our people in the APC and jump ship. We believe the solution to Nigeria’s challenges lies in leadership and commitment, not necessarily in changing party platforms,” he added.

While wishing Sylva success in his future political endeavours, Nabena expressed appreciation for the former governor’s leadership and contributions to the growth of the APC in Bayelsa State.

He further noted that beyond politics, Sylva remains a respected leader to many people in the state and would continue to enjoy their regard and respect.

Nabena reaffirmed the commitment of Bayelsa APC members to strengthening the party, mobilising support for President Tinubu’s second-term bid and ensuring electoral victories for APC candidates in future elections.