A chieftain of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Bayelsa State, Hon. Joseph Maciver, has urged Governor Douye Diri to be cautious of alleged betrayals within the political structure in the state. Maciver made the call on Monday while addressing concerns surrounding the ongoing ward congress activities in Southern Ijaw.
Maciver accused certain politicians in Southern Ijaw of allegedly hijacking the ward congress process. He claimed that some individuals were using the governor’s name to influence outcomes in favor of their relatives and associates.
According to him, these politicians are allegedly manipulating the internal party process because they hold positions in government. He alleged that they were favoring individuals who are either related to them or are loyal to them due to political patronage.
Maciver warned that if the situation is not urgently addressed, it could lead to serious internal crises. He cautioned that unchecked actions may result in the total collapse of party structures ahead of the next general election.
He expressed concern that internal wrangling and perceived injustice during the ward congress could weaken party unity. He added that unresolved disputes might create factions capable of undermining electoral strength.
Maciver further alleged that some of the individuals currently parading themselves and claiming to be southern stakeholders are the same set of people who betrayed APC and collected money from PDP with gunboats but still couldn’t win their wards in the election.
According to Maciver, those he described as “self-acclaimed politicians” in Southern Ijaw had previously shown disloyalty. He claimed that their current actions suggest a repeat of past political behavior that could threaten stability.
He emphasized that political leaders must prioritize fairness and inclusivity in party processes. Maciver argued that sidelining grassroots members in favor of a select few could generate resentment within the ranks.
The APC chieftain stressed that ward congresses are critical to strengthening internal democracy. He maintained that transparent processes are essential to maintaining party cohesion and preparing for future electoral contests.
Maciver called on Governor Diri to closely monitor developments within the party structure. He urged the governor to intervene where necessary to prevent what he described as manipulation and exclusion.
He also appealed to party stakeholders to ensure that congress activities reflect the true will of members. According to him, credibility in internal elections will determine the party’s ability to compete effectively in upcoming polls.
Maciver’s comments highlight growing tensions within local political circles in Southern Ijaw. His remarks suggest dissatisfaction among some party members regarding the conduct of internal processes.
The development comes amid heightened political activities across Bayelsa State. Stakeholders are closely watching how internal disputes may shape alignments ahead of future elections.
Maciver reiterated his call for vigilance, urging the governor to guard against what he described as political betrayal. He maintained that proactive leadership would help prevent divisions that could undermine electoral prospects.
The situation continues to unfold as ward congress activities progress in various parts of Bayelsa State. Political observers expect further reactions from party stakeholders in the coming days.
He ended the statement with, “A betrayal is always a betrayal”
