APC Equity Group Accuses Bayelsa State Governor Douye Diri of Promoting Nepotism

APC Equity Group Accuses Bayelsa State Governor Douye Diri of Promoting Nepotism

The APC Equity Group in Bayelsa State has accused Governor Douye Diri of promoting nepotism and running the state in a way that favors his family members and close associates.

In a press statement released on Tuesday, the group said that many people in Bayelsa State and across the Ijaw Nation are no longer comfortable with the governor’s style of leadership. It added that concerns are increasing as political activities ahead of the 2027 elections begin to gather momentum.

The group pointed to recent events in the Ijaw National Congress, saying they show that people are beginning to resist what they described as attempts to control leadership positions. It stated that High Chief MacDonald Igbadiwei was chosen instead of Rear Admiral Woyengidinikpete Yanga, who was allegedly supported by the governor.

According to the group, this decision shows that stakeholders are rejecting any form of candidate imposition.

The statement also claimed that some political actors worked against another aspirant, Elder Timi Kaiser-Wilhelm Ogoriba, in order to promote the governor’s preferred interests.

The APC Equity Group further alleged that most political appointments and influence in the state are concentrated in Kolokuma/Opokuma Local Government Area, where the governor comes from. It said this has created feelings of exclusion and marginalization among people from other parts of the state.

The group compared the current situation with the administration of former governor Seriake Dickson, saying that he ensured that different parts of the state were fairly represented in government.

It also described the present administration as being run like a “family business,” claiming that key decisions, appointments, and development projects are centered around Sampou and Ayamasa communities, which are linked to the governor’s paternal and maternal roots.

Speaking on Ekeremor Local Government Area, the group alleged that a large number of appointments have been given to people from Ayamasa. It also claimed that more projects have been taken to that community than to other areas in the local government.

Looking ahead to the 2027 elections, the group said there are plans to support Retired General Henry Ayamasaowei for the Bayelsa West Senatorial District. It claimed that many stakeholders within the APC have already rejected this move, describing the candidate as not well connected to the grassroots.

The group also warned against any attempt to use government institutions to influence election results. It said such actions could lead to serious political tension, unrest, and possible loss of lives and property.

It further compared the situation to the leadership style of Paul Biya of Cameroon, warning that Bayelsa State should not be governed in a similar way.

The APC Equity Group ended by saying that the growing dissatisfaction across the state is a strong signal that people want fairness, inclusion, and better leadership as the 2027 elections approach.

The statement was signed by Hon. Andrew Amalafamyo and Hon. Timiebi Johny on behalf of the APC Equity Group.