The state governor, Douye Diri, has been criticized by elders of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Bayelsa State for accusing former Petroleum Minister (State), Chief Timipre Sylva, of supporting the recent hardship protest in the state.
In a recent statement, Sylva had urged Nigerian youths to stand by President Bola Tinubu and allow him more time to address the country’s challenges, as noted by the APC elders.
Chief Clarkson Ayebaepreye, the Secretary of the APC Elders Forum, signed a statement on Tuesday stating that Sylva has consistently advocated for peace.
The statement pointed out that Governor Diri, in a delayed and lackluster message following Sylva’s plea, is suspected of having ulterior motives and being a double agent in a bid to secure the APC’s allegedly stolen mandate at the court.
The elders further accused Diri of working against Tinubu and the APC during the last election by supporting the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) and its leader, Alhaji Atiku Abubakar.
They highlighted Diri’s previous actions, such as spending Bayelsa taxpayers’ funds to support Atiku and assisting in promoting policies aimed at hindering Tinubu’s chances.
Additionally, the elders claimed that Diri’s sudden affinity towards the APC is a facade and questioned his loyalty during the past presidential elections.
According to the elders, Diri has been instructed by Atiku to coordinate protests in Bayelsa State, despite his apparent support for Tinubu.
They expressed their opposition to any protests in the state and criticized Diri for purportedly hindering pro-Tinubu movements while supporting anti-Tinubu demonstrations.
The elders warned that Diri’s true allegiance will be revealed after the Supreme Court’s ruling and accused him of deceptive behavior influenced by his ambition and connections.