The All Progressives Congress (APC) in Bayelsa State has suspended several high-ranking officials, including the Minister of State for Petroleum, Senator Heineken Lokpobiri, and David Lyon, the party’s 2019 gubernatorial candidate. The suspension also affects two commissioners currently serving in the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP)-led Bayelsa State administration who are also APC members.
Mitin Eniekenemi, the APC leader in Ekeremor Local Government Area, confirmed the suspension of Lokpobiri and the Commissioner for Power, Engr. Karin Kumoko, citing internal party divisions and misconduct as the reasons. The decision followed recommendations by a disciplinary committee under Article 21.3(1) of the APC Constitution.
In a related development, APC officials in Southern Ijaw Local Government Area also suspended David Lyon, along with Commissioner for Lands and Survey Barr. Peres Biewari and six others, accusing them of undermining the party, particularly during the 2020 Bayelsa State bye-election.
Investigations into the suspended members’ actions are ongoing, with more details expected to emerge regarding other individuals involved in anti-party activities.
