Bayelsa APC youths protest moves to revoke surveillance contracts

Nathan Tamarapreye, Yenagoa

The Bayelsa Progressives Youth Movement (BPYM), a pro-All Progressives Congress (APC) group, has cautioned against alleged plans by the Bayelsa State Government, in collaboration with some federal figures, to revoke existing surveillance contracts held by loyal members of the party.

In a statement signed on Friday by its Secretary, Jordan Ebifatei, the group described the move as politically motivated, saying the only “offence” of the affected contractors was their unwavering loyalty to former Governor and APC leader, Chief Timipre Sylva.

The APC youths expressed concern that the alleged plan was targeted mainly at Mr Joshua Maciver and Chief Kojo Sam, both described as founding members of the APC who have contributed significantly to peace and stability in their communities.

“These individuals, whose only known offence appears to be their steadfast loyalty to former Minister of State for Petroleum Resources, Chief Timipre Sylva, have been instrumental in maintaining peace and order within their operational areas,” the statement read.

“Any attempt to wrest these contracts from them, if true, would amount to political victimisation and could destabilise the livelihoods of hundreds of Bayelsa youths who depend on these contracts for survival.”

The group warned that such actions could heighten existing tensions in the state, which is already facing economic and political strain.

According to BPYM, “Governor Douye Diri already commands the full administrative and political machinery of the Bayelsa State Government, while the Minister of State for Petroleum (Oil), Senator Heineken Lokpobiri, holds a significant federal position. It would therefore be disappointing for individuals in such privileged positions to seek control over the modest enterprises that sustain ordinary citizens.”

They further described the alleged move as a reflection of “an increasingly intolerant political culture driven by insecurity and resentment rather than public interest.”

The youths urged President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to intervene and ensure fairness, justice, and restraint in matters affecting peace, livelihood, and political cohesion in the state.

“We urge all actors to remember that the essence of leadership is service, not conquest. Governance should never degenerate into a zero-sum contest of personal interests.

“We remain committed to pursuing every legitimate and peaceful avenue to resist any unjust or economically harmful action against our members,” the statement concluded.