A chieftain of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Bayelsa State, Hon. Joseph Maciver, has cautioned Governor Douye Diri to be wary of individuals he described as “smiling betrayers” within his political circle. Maciver raised the concern while speaking in a telephone interview with TrackNews. He linked his warning to the ongoing ward and local government area (LGA) congresses in the state.
Maciver expressed dissatisfaction over the manner in which the congresses were conducted. He alleged that key stakeholders in the party were sidelined during the process. According to him, neither he nor his brother, who was the APC’s former deputy governorship candidate, was informed or invited to participate.
He questioned the transparency and inclusiveness of the congresses. Maciver suggested that excluding prominent party figures could undermine unity within the APC in Bayelsa State. He warned that such actions might weaken grassroots mobilization efforts ahead of future elections.
The APC chieftain emphasized the need for credible leadership and internal democracy. He stated that party processes should reflect fairness and broad consultation among stakeholders. In his view, sidelining experienced members could create internal divisions at a critical political period.
Maciver also alleged that some individuals who did not perform well during the last governorship election are now closely aligned with Governor Diri. He claimed that these individuals are influencing party affairs despite what he described as their poor electoral showing. He urged the governor to reassess those around him.
Referring specifically to the last governorship election, Maciver alleged that certain leaders failed to deliver significant support in parts of Southern Ijaw. He claimed that about 80 percent of expected results in some areas were not realized. He also referenced 980 votes that were reportedly cancelled, though he did not provide further details.
Maciver criticized politicians from Southern Ijaw whom he said failed to secure victories in their respective units and wards. He alleged that such individuals are now presenting themselves as influential figures around the governor. According to him, their previous performance should serve as a cautionary signal.
He warned that individuals who did not deliver electoral success in the past could betray the governor and the party at crucial moments. Maciver maintained that political loyalty should be measured by performance and commitment at the grassroots level. He suggested that past electoral outcomes offer clear indicators of reliability.
The APC leader stressed the importance of unity within the party as preparations intensify for upcoming National Assembly and presidential elections. Political parties across Bayelsa State are currently repositioning ahead of these contests. Internal cohesion, he said, will be essential for electoral success.
Maciver’s remarks highlight ongoing tensions within party structures in the state. Ward and LGA congresses are critical processes used to organize party leadership at the grassroots level. Disputes arising from such exercises often have implications for broader party stability.
While Maciver directed his warning at Governor Diri, the comments also reflect broader concerns about political alliances and loyalty in Bayelsa politics. He called for greater inclusiveness and transparency in party activities. He insisted that sidelining established stakeholders could have long-term consequences.
As the political landscape in Bayelsa continues to evolve, party leaders are expected to navigate internal challenges while preparing for national elections. The outcome of ongoing congresses may shape future alignments within the APC and other political parties in the state.
