Hon. Werinipre Seibarugu, who moved the motion for the adoption of direct primaries, seconded by Chief Samuel Ogbuku, said the system would ensure unity in the party.
The All Progressive Congress (APC) in Bayelsa State has aligned with the position of Comrade Adams Oshiomole, APC National Chairman, on the adoption of direct primaries for the state, national and presidential primaries of the party.
At the State Executive Council (SEC) and stakeholders’ sessions on Saturday, presided over by the former Governor, Chief Timipre Sylva, and the Minister of State for Agriculture and Rural Development, Senator Heineken Lokpobiri, it was agreed that the adoption of direct primaries would allow for cohesion and all-inclusive participation.
A former deputy governor, Hon. Werinipre Seibarugu, who moved the motion for the adoption of direct primaries, seconded by a former Chief of Staff of the Bayelsa State Government, Chief Samuel Ogbuku, said the system would ensure unity in the party.
In his speech, Sylva said: “With the quality of candidates we have in APC, compared what the other party produced, we stand heads and shoulders above the PDP”.
He also pleaded to be made the Director General of the state and National Assembly campaigns in the 105 wards of the state, a request that was automatically granted by supporters of the party.
Senator Heineken Lokpobiri, Minister of State for Agriculture and Rural Development, who thanked members for their support, said the chapter adopted direct primaries to "give a sense of belonging, and it will not allow some persons to hijack the party for personal gains”.
Lokpobiri also noted that by the decision, the Bayelsa chapter of the party had shown that they can align with the centre.
Speaking on governance in Bayelsa, Lokpobiri said: “The people of Bayelsa have suffered enough. The next election will be used to send a message that this is the time for our people. If we select the right candidate, we will win the state Houses of Assembly and National Assembly seats".