A political support group under the banner of Tinubu/Sylva APC Bayelsa Vanguard, on Monday, staged a solidarity rally across major streets of Yenagoa, the Bayelsa State capital, in a show of support for President Bola Tinubu and former Minister of State for Petroleum Resources, Chief Timipre Sylva.
The rally, which drew hundreds of party loyalists, was aimed at reaffirming Sylva’s position as a committed leader of the All Progressives Congress (APC) and a key pillar in the political landscape of Bayelsa State.
Addressing journalists during the march, the convener and leader of the group, Comrade John Ayebabomote Birakumo, described Chief Sylva as one of the founding fathers of the APC who has made “enormous sacrifices” to build and strengthen the party in Bayelsa and beyond.
“We are raising awareness to alert Bayelsans and the entire APC family that Chief Timipre Sylva remains a committed and visionary leader of the APC,” Birakumo stated.
“He contested the last election under the party’s platform and has sacrificed immensely to build and strengthen the APC, even when others were wining and dining with the PDP and other parties.”
The youth leader condemned what he termed politically motivated persecution against the former governor, alleging that Sylva’s detractors were threatened by his growing political influence.
“We are undeterred by the politically motivated persecution of Chief Sylva, knowing full well it is orchestrated by his detractors and political adversaries who fear his monumental influence — not only in Bayelsa State but across the region and nation,” he said.
“Chief Sylva is a true democrat and statesman who has significantly contributed to Nigeria’s development. His unwavering dedication to the Renewed Hope Agenda of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu reflects his commitment to progress, unity, and national advancement.”
Birakumo emphasized that the rally was only the beginning of a statewide campaign to reinforce loyalty to both Tinubu and Sylva.
“Many more rallies to drum up support for both Chief Timipre Sylva and Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu will be held weekly across Bayelsa,” he disclosed.
“We call on President Tinubu to disregard the malicious whispers from Bayelsa’s enemies, who are hellbent on spreading falsehoods and creating needless political tension. The people of Bayelsa stand united behind these leaders and their vision for a brighter future.”
He added that Chief Sylva’s leadership has had a tangible impact on the lives of Bayelsans and continues to inspire confidence in the APC’s prospects in the state.
“Chief Timipre Sylva is an influential leader whose contributions have tangibly transformed the lives of Bayelsans. His extensive followers in the region attest to his deep-rooted connection with the people. Sylva’s visionary leadership continues to inspire hope and mobilize support for meaningful development across Bayelsa State,” Birakumo concluded.
The solidarity march came amid renewed political tensions within the Bayelsa APC, following allegations of internal divisions and attempts to undermine the former governor’s influence.
